Immediate Steps for a Dog Hit by a Car: What to Do

Firstly, let's imagine a scenario where a dog has been hit by a vehicle. The dog may exhibit several signs, which include:

Limping

Yelling in pain when touched in certain areas

Groaning while walking

Abnormal behavior

Bruising

Head trauma

Pain upon touching the abdomen

Bleeding

Shock (pale skin, cold extremities, rapid breathing, weak pulse)

Upon reading this list, you might feel overwhelmed, as it's highly unlikely for most dogs to be involved in such an incident. For most pet owners, it's essential to remember just two key points:

1. External and Internal Injuries

External Injuries: As the name suggests, these are wounds on the dog's body from being struck by a vehicle. They are usually quite apparent, and with a bit of time and careful examination, you can easily spot various degrees of external injuries. Typically, these injuries manifest as bruising, lacerations, or abrasions in the areas affected by the collision. Be cautious, though: if you notice an unusual swelling in the abdomen after the accident, it could indicate internal injuries.

Internal Injuries: These are far more sinister than external injuries. For overwhelmed owners at the scene, internal injuries can be deceptive, as they require a certain level of experience and patience to detect. Unlike the immediate bleeding of external injuries, internal injuries are often hidden and can be quite severe.

The swelling mentioned earlier is one of the most common signs of internal injuries, often resulting from internal bleeding due to the impact on the organs. Remember, the abdomen is one of the most vulnerable parts of a dog's body.

2. What If the Dog Seems Fine?

It's possible for a dog to appear unharmed after a collision. However, it's crucial to consider the following: If a standard electric bicycle hit a Labrador, the dog might only have external injuries. But if a speeding car struck a bearsized dog, the outcome could be dire.

Therefore, when assessing the situation, consider the speed of the vehicle and the size of the dog for an initial judgment. Generally, a dog hit by a vehicle traveling at full speed is unlikely to escape without injury, especially if it's a small breed.

So, if your dog seems fine and there's no sign of an abdomen abnormality, be extra vigilant. If, in the following days, you notice any of the following symptoms, it's vital to take your pet to the vet immediately:

Rapid heartbeat

Rapid breathing

Dark stools or diarrhea

Pale or blue gums

Coughing up or vomiting blood

Lethargy or lack of energy

These are severe indicators of internal injuries, and they should never be taken lightly. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial.

Rest assured, though, that while the list may seem daunting, most dogs hit by vehicles at nonhigh speeds will likely only suffer from fractures and minor external injuries, which can heal over time.