A dog hit by a car is one of the most terrifying situations a pet owner can face. Staying calm and acting correctly in the first minutes is critical.
Immediate Steps
- Ensure your own safety first — do not put yourself in traffic
- Approach calmly — an injured dog in shock may bite even the most trusted person
- Muzzle the dog if possible, or loop a lead around the muzzle loosely
- Call your emergency vet immediately
Moving an Injured Dog
Spinal injuries are common in road accidents. Support the entire body when moving. Use a flat surface — a board, blanket, or car boot mat — as a stretcher. Keep the dog as still as possible. Do not let the dog walk.
Control Bleeding
Apply firm, direct pressure to any actively bleeding wounds using a clean cloth. Do not apply tourniquets. Maintain pressure continuously.
Shock
Signs of shock: pale or white gums, rapid shallow breathing, weakness, cold extremities. Keep the dog warm (cover with a blanket) and minimise handling while getting to the vet.
Internal Injuries
Many road accident injuries are internal and not immediately visible. A dog that appears to walk away from an accident may still have serious internal bleeding or organ damage. Always see a vet after any road traffic accident, even if the dog seems fine.