Pup 911: A quick guide to canine injuries

No loving pet owner wants to imagine a scenario where their furry friend gets hurt. It’s essential to be proactive in our efforts to stave off potential hazards and prepare for what happens should the worst occur. Let’s go over some steps to help keep your dog safe and guidance on what to do if they experience canine injuries.

Top causes of canine injuries

One of the most common methods of traumatic injury for dogs is auto accidents. If your dog slips out of your yard or you lose your grip on its leash during a walk, your dog may end in an unwanted encounter with a vehicle. 

According to the ultimate car accident Guide in CA, distracted drivers are one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents. If a distracted driver doesn’t have eyes on the road, they won’t see your dog in the way and likely won’t stop in time. 

Another common cause of dog injury is the ingestion of foreign bodies. This can come in everything from hazardous toys to discarded trash on the street. 

Certain breeds are deserving of particular attention, as well. If you own a Labrador, Great Dane, or German Shepherd, be aware of their predisposition towards hip dysplasia. Due to their heavy but short builds, the bulldog breeds are more prone than others to spinal injuries from jumps and falls.

Safeguard against common dangers

Avoid auto accidents

The best way of keeping your dog safe from the dangers on the road is to keep them out of it. This entails regularly testing the fencing on your property for weaknesses a motivated dog could potentially exploit. If your dog travels in your car, invest in a seatbelt leash to protect your dog in case of a crash. 

Reduce choking hazards

You want to make sure to screen toys and treats for choking hazards. Treats made from rawhide and animal bone tend to splinter, risking injury. Avoid those and any dog toys with small, easily detachable components. Monitor your dog’s attention on walks so that they don’t attempt to ingest anything hazardous left on the street.

Cater to your pet’s needs

If you have a dog whose breed is prone to hip dysplasia or spinal injuries, it is essential to ask your vet what diet has the right nutrients to assist in proper skeletal development. It is also advisable to avoid stairs as often as possible as they get older. You can also purchase dog-specific ramps and step stools to assist your aging canine with getting on and off elevated furniture.

Prepare for emergencies

Finally, mark your local Veterinary ER’s phone number down where it’s easily accessible should a pressing situation develop. The CDC even recommends you take things a step further by investing in a Pet Disaster Preparedness Kit.

Know what to do if your dog is injured

If the worst does happen and your pet does appear to have canine injuries, it’s important not to panic. Your dog’s health may rely on your ability to stay calm and assess the situation. Here’s how to handle the situation:

1. Does your dog have anything blocking its airway? If so, remove it if possible.
2. Is your dog breathing? Can you feel a pulse?

If the answer to any of the above questions is NO, begin canine CPR immediately!  

If the answer to all the above questions is YES, you need to observe your dog for any signs of trauma or pain. These include deformities, burns, and limping. 

Keep your dog safe

Remember, since our dogs can’t communicate by words, they share signs of distress with us through other means such as growling or rapid, shallow breathing. When you notice something’s off, a visit to the veterinarian never hurts. One of the best ways to show your love is to keep your pup safe, so use this guide to ensure they’re happy and healthy for many years to come.