Treatment and Recovery for Pets Injured in Car Accidents

Car accidents can be traumatic for both humans and animals. Read on to learn about first aid as well as your pet’s treatment and recovery from car accident injuries.

First Aid Treatment

If your pet is involved in a car accident, you must remain composed and assess your pet for injuries. Check for wounds or broken bones and pay attention to signs that could be life-threatening, such as difficulty breathing or heavy bleeding.

When necessary, carefully transfer your pet to a safe zone. Be cautious when handling your pet, especially if they’re scared or in pain. They may bite out of fear. Using a muzzle or a towel for restraint can be beneficial, but never do this if your pet has facial injuries or is having trouble breathing.

Regardless of how your pet appears, it’s recommended to have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Even if there are no apparent signs of injury, there may be unseen internal damage that needs to be addressed quickly. Be sure to call ahead and let the veterinarian know you are coming so they can be prepared for your arrival. Early intervention can save your pet’s life and help them fully recover.

Treatment and Outlook

The treatment may vary depending on the severity of your pet’s injuries. Veterinarians prioritize tending to life-threatening issues first. These include shock, excessive bleeding and any damage to their internal organs. Once your pet has stabilized, the veterinarian will address wounds and fractures.

Your pet may have to be hospitalized for tests, pain control and other medical treatments. Severe wounds, broken bones, internal damage or profuse bleeding may require surgical intervention.

Your pet’s recovery could take anywhere from a few days to many weeks. This largely depends on the severity of your pet’s injuries. Minor wounds should be healed in a week, while more serious ones, like broken bones, will need longer to heal.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Car

Avoid driving with a pet on your lap, as this can be extremely distracting to you and other people on the road. Your pet could lean out of the window and hinder your view of the road and surrounding vehicles. Having your pet in the front passenger seat is not a great idea either. They may get hurt by an airbag designed to safeguard adults. If your car doesn’t have a passenger-side airbag, your dog can ride in the front seat as long as they’re properly restrained with a doggy seatbelt. To ensure the utmost safety of your pet while in a car, invest in a sturdy aluminum dog crate. Ensure it provides adequate space, airflow and ventilation and never leave them unattended.

Do you suspect your pet may be suffering from an injury? Time is of the essence when it comes to your pet’s health, so every second counts. Visit the Animal Emergency Center of Temple-Belton, now in Temple, Texas. You may reach us at (254) 231-3774.