My dog fell on its hind legs, what should I do? - briefly
If your dog has fallen on its hind legs and is experiencing pain or difficulty moving, it's crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately for professional advice. In the meantime, keep your dog calm and prevent any further movement that could exacerbate the injury.
My dog fell on its hind legs, what should I do? - in detail
If your dog has fallen and injured its hind legs, it's important to stay calm and act swiftly but carefully. Here are some steps you can take:
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Assess the Situation: Quickly examine your dog to determine the extent of the injury. Look for any visible wounds, swelling, or signs of pain such as whining, limping, or reluctance to move the leg.
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Keep Your Dog Calm and Still: Prevent your dog from moving around too much to avoid causing further damage. If possible, gently restrain your dog using a muzzle if it's in pain and might bite.
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Check for Broken Bones: Gently feel along the leg bones for any unusual lumps or painful areas that could indicate a fracture. Be cautious not to cause more harm by applying too much pressure.
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Control Bleeding: If there's bleeding, apply gentle pressure using a clean cloth or gauze. If the bleeding is severe or doesn’t stop after 10-15 minutes of pressure, seek immediate veterinary care.
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Immobilize the Injured Leg: If you suspect a broken bone or serious injury, try to immobilize the leg using a makeshift splint. You can use a stiff piece of cardboard or a rolled-up magazine secured with tape. Ensure it's not too tight and doesn’t cut off circulation.
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Avoid Giving Pain Relievers: Unless instructed by your vet, avoid giving your dog any human pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen as they can be toxic to dogs.
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Contact Your Vet: Even if the injury seems minor, it’s crucial to have a professional examination. Internal injuries may not be immediately visible but could be serious. Provide your vet with all the details you observed and follow their instructions.
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Transport Carefully: If you need to transport your dog, support its body to prevent any unnecessary movement of the injured leg. Use a blanket or towel to create a sling under the dog's belly for added support.
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Monitor Your Dog: Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of worsening condition such as increased pain, lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing.
By following these steps, you can provide immediate care and ensure your dog gets the professional help it needs to recover from its hind leg injury.