What to Do If My Dog is Hit by a Car

If your dog is hit by a car, it’s a frightening situation that requires immediate and calm action to ensure their safety and well-being. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this emergency with the best possible outcome for your furry friend.

Immediate Steps to Take If Your Dog Is Hit by a Car

• Stay Calm: Your reaction impacts your dog’s stress level. Remaining calm helps you to think clearly and take the necessary steps to aid your dog effectively.
• Assess the Situation: Quickly evaluate your dog’s condition without moving them unnecessarily, as this could exacerbate potential injuries. Look for visible signs of injury, but remember, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Call for Help: Contact your nearest emergency veterinary clinic immediately. If possible, call while you’re on the way to inform them of your situation, so they’re prepared for your arrival.
• Gentle Handling: If you must move your dog, do so with great care. Use a flat surface like a board as a makeshift stretcher to support them. If you suspect spinal injuries, try to stabilize your dog as much as possible during transport.
• Communicate with Any Involved Parties: If the driver who hit your dog is present, calmly exchange information. However, your priority should remain with your dog’s immediate care.
• Professional Evaluation is Crucial: Even if your dog appears unharmed, internal injuries can be life-threatening. A vet can perform a thorough examination to rule out or treat any injuries.

At the Veterinary Clinic

• Emergency Care: The vet will prioritize stabilizing your dog, addressing shock, pain, and any critical injuries first.
• Diagnostic Testing: Tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, and blood work may be necessary to fully understand your dog’s injuries.
• Treatment Plan: Depending on the diagnosis, treatments can range from medication and rest to surgery or more advanced interventions.

Preventive Measures and Considerations

• Safety First: Prevent accidents by keeping your dog on a leash during walks and securing your yard to prevent escapes.
• Pet Insurance: Consider investing in pet insurance to help cover unexpected veterinary expenses in emergencies.
• Emergency Preparedness: Know the location of your nearest emergency veterinary clinic and have their contact information readily accessible.

Aftercare and Recovery

Follow all veterinary advice regarding aftercare and rehabilitation. Recovery may include rest, medication, follow-up visits, and possibly adjustments to your home to accommodate your dog’s needs during healing.

Remember, the shock and adrenaline can mask pain in dogs, so closely monitor your dog for any changes in behavior or signs of pain in the days following the incident. Immediate and appropriate response to a dog being hit by a car can significantly impact their recovery process, so it’s crucial to act swiftly and follow these guidelines to ensure the best care for your injured pet.

In the wake of such distressing events as your dog being hit by a car, knowing where to turn for expert, compassionate care is paramount. Fetch Specialty & Emergency Veterinary Centers stands as a beacon of hope and assistance during these urgent times. With a dedicated team of emergency veterinary professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, Fetch ensures that your beloved pet receives the immediate attention and specialized care they need for a chance at a full recovery. Their commitment to pet health and wellbeing reflects in their round-the-clock availability, ensuring that no matter the hour, help is at hand for your injured pet. For more details on their services and how they can assist in emergency situations, visiting Fetch Specialty & Emergency Veterinary Centers (FetchVets.com) can offer peace of mind and a pathway to recovery for your cherished companion.