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Seeing your dog get hit by a car is every pet parent’s worst nightmare. It’s a terrifying, high-stress moment, and knowing what to do next can make all the difference for your furry friend. Acting quickly and calmly can help save your dog’s life and minimize long-term injuries.
⚠️ What to Watch For
After your dog is hit by a car, they may not always show obvious signs of injury right away. Dogs instinctively hide pain, so even if they seem fine, it’s crucial to assess their condition carefully. Here’s what to look for:
- Difficulty breathing
- Limping or inability to stand
- Bleeding, bruising, or visible wounds
- Swelling or tenderness in certain areas
- Whimpering, growling, or other signs of pain
- Vomiting or changes in bowel or bladder control
- Disorientation or unusual behavior
Even if your dog appears uninjured, internal damage is a possibility. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or organ trauma, may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
🔍 Possible Causes
Dogs can get hit by cars for several reasons, often involving a combination of curiosity and quick movements. Common scenarios include:
- Bolting out of the house or yard when startled
- Chasing after other animals, such as squirrels or cats
- Escaping from a leash or harness
- Wandering onto the road due to poor fencing or an open gate
Understanding how the accident happened can help you prevent future incidents. However, in the immediate aftermath, the focus should remain on your dog’s safety and well-being.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow if your dog is hit by a car:
- Stay calm and assess the situation: Your dog is likely scared and in pain. Approach them slowly and avoid sudden movements that might make them panic.
- Ensure safety: If your dog is in the road, carefully move them to a safer location, but only if it’s safe for you to do so. Use a blanket or towel to gently lift them if needed.
- Control bleeding: Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to stop bleeding. Avoid using tourniquets unless instructed by a vet.
- Check for breathing and pulse: If your dog is unresponsive, perform CPR or rescue breathing if you’re trained to do so.
- Keep them still: Prevent your dog from moving to avoid worsening potential injuries, especially fractures or spinal issues.
- Transport safely: Place your dog on a flat surface, such as a sturdy board or blanket, to prevent further injury during transport.
Remember, these steps are temporary measures until you can get to a vet. Prioritize getting professional help as soon as possible.
💡 When to Call a Vet
In almost all cases, you should call a vet immediately after your dog is hit by a car. Even if your dog seems fine, a veterinary exam is crucial to rule out hidden injuries. Call ahead to let the clinic know you’re coming so they can prepare for an emergency.
Some situations require urgent attention:
- Difficulty breathing or shallow breathing
- Severe bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure
- Visible bone fractures or dislocations
- Unresponsiveness or loss of consciousness
- Signs of internal bleeding (pale gums, abdominal swelling, or weakness)
If you’re unsure whether your dog needs to see a vet, err on the side of caution. Pet telehealth services like Dial A Vet can provide immediate guidance and help you determine the next steps.
FAQs
Q: What should I do if I can’t get my dog to a vet right away?
A: Stabilize your dog as best as you can. Keep them warm, control bleeding, and prevent movement. Call a pet telehealth service for guidance until you can reach a vet.
Q: How can I prevent my dog from getting hit by a car in the future?
A: Use secure leashes, ensure your yard is fully fenced, and train your dog to follow basic commands like “stay” and “come.” Microchipping and ID tags can also help reunite you if they get loose.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
