If a dog was hit by a car, help? - briefly
If a dog is hit by a car, immediate action is crucial. Call an emergency vet immediately and, if possible, carefully move the dog to a safe location to avoid further injury.
If a dog was hit by a car, help? - in detail
If you witness a dog being hit by a car, your prompt action can significantly improve its chances of survival and recovery. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Safety First: Ensure your safety and that of others before approaching the dog. Pull over to the side of the road if you're in a vehicle, and turn on your hazard lights. If you're on foot, move to a safe location away from traffic.
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Assess the Situation: Check if the dog is conscious and breathing. Look for any visible injuries such as broken bones, bleeding, or signs of internal trauma. Be cautious as an injured animal may be in pain and could bite out of fear or distress.
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Contact Professionals: Immediately call local emergency services, a veterinary clinic, or an animal control agency for professional help. Provide them with your location and a description of the dog's condition.
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Provide First Aid: If possible, gently muzzle the dog using a cloth, towel, or shirt to prevent biting. Be careful not to put any pressure on the neck or head area. For minor injuries like cuts and scrapes, apply direct pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding.
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Stabilize the Dog: If you suspect broken bones or spinal injuries, do not move the dog unless it is in immediate danger from traffic or other hazards. In such cases, carefully slide a board or a firm surface under the dog and use it as an improvised stretcher to transport it to safety.
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Keep the Dog Warm: Use blankets, towels, or your own clothing to keep the dog warm. Shock and hypothermia are common issues with injured animals.
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Monitor Vital Signs: Check the dog's pulse by feeling for a heartbeat near the ribcage or on the inside of the thigh. Normal heart rates for dogs range from 60 to 120 beats per minute. Also, ensure the dog is breathing normally.
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Administer CPR if Necessary: If the dog stops breathing and you cannot feel a pulse, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Place the dog on its side, extend its neck to open the airway, and cover its nose with your mouth to give two breaths. Then, place both hands over the dog's ribcage and compress firmly 15-20 times. Continue this cycle until you reach professional help or the dog revives.
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Comfort the Dog: Stay with the dog and speak calmly to reassure it. Try to minimize additional stress or pain by keeping it as still and comfortable as possible.
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Transport Carefully: If a professional service is not immediately available, transport the dog to the nearest veterinary clinic using your vehicle or by calling a taxi or ride-sharing service that allows animals.
By following these steps, you can provide crucial assistance to an injured dog and increase its chances of survival until professional help arrives.