Help, what do I do? I was out walking Maggie, my 3-year-old Golden Retriever, in the park today, and she seemed super excited, chasing after another dog. But out of nowhere, she ran smack into a pole. It was honestly like something out of a cartoon, and I felt terrible for laughing at first! She shook her head a bit and carried on playing like nothing happened, but now I’m worried. It’s been about an hour since we got home, and she seems totally normal, eating and wagging her tail like usual. But I can’t stop thinking about it—what if she has some hidden injury or a mild concussion? Is there something specific I should watch out for, or am I overreacting here? Any advice would be appreciated!
I completely understand why you're worried. It's always alarming when our furry friends have a little accident. If your dog seems fine, that’s a great initial sign. However, it's important to keep an eye on her for any changes.
Dogs can sometimes seem unfazed by minor bumps, but there are a few things to watch out for. Check her over for any cuts, bruising, or swelling where she hit the pole. These surface injuries can often be treated gently at home by cleaning any small wounds with mild soap and water.
Observe her behavior over the next 24-48 hours. Watch for signs like limping, reluctance to move, difficulty breathing, or changes in eating and drinking habits, which could indicate a more serious injury. Also, look out for symptoms like vomiting, unusual eye movements, or lethargy, as they might suggest a concussion.
Encourage her to rest and avoid vigorous play for a couple of days to recover fully. Offer her a calm, comfortable environment and monitor her progress.
If you notice any concerning symptoms or if she seems off, it’s best to book a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. They can provide a more tailored assessment and recommend if further examination is needed.
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