Fractures / heavy impact (hit by a vehicle, fall from height)
CRITICAL
Fractures / heavy impact (hit by a vehicle, fall from height)
Trauma
Even if your pet looks fine — internal injuries can show up later. Always get a vet check.
Symptoms to watch for
- ▸ Severe limping / unable to use a leg
- ▸ A limb bent at an unnatural angle
- ▸ Rapid swelling at the injury site
- ▸ Crying out when touched
- ▸ Laboured breathing (possible collapsed lung)
- ▸ Lethargy, pale gums (internal bleeding)
DO THIS NOW (in order)
- 1 KEEP YOUR PET STILL — do not let them walk, even if they try to stand
- 2 If you suspect a spinal or neck fracture — DO NOT move them, slide a board or stiff sheet underneath
- 3 Simple limb splint: rolled newspaper / a wooden stick + a bandage to hold it, NOT too tight
- 4 Cover with a blanket to keep warm + prevent shock
- 5 Call the clinic — travel by car, NEVER by motorbike
NEVER DO THIS
- ✕ DO NOT try to straighten the bone (it damages nerves and blood vessels)
- ✕ DO NOT pull your pet up onto their legs
- ✕ DO NOT move the spine if you suspect a spinal fracture (paralysis)
- ✕ DO NOT give human painkillers (paracetamol/ibuprofen → FATAL)
Getting there safely
Lay your pet on a rigid board (for a spinal fracture) or a thick towel. Two people carry them, keeping the body straight. Go by car, driving slowly to avoid jolts.
While you wait for the vet
- ▸ Watch the breathing — difficulty breathing = suspect a chest injury
- ▸ Check the gums — pale → internal bleeding
- ▸ Keep your pet warm with a blanket
- ▸ Talk softly to keep your pet calm
RED FLAG — get emergency care right away if you see:
- Severe difficulty breathing
- A hard, painful belly (internal bleeding)
- Loss of consciousness
- Both hind legs paralysed (spinal fracture)
- Unequal pupils in the two eyes (brain injury)
This guide does NOT replace a vet's diagnosis. Always contact the clinic, even if your pet seems fine.