When you’re a pet owner, there’s nothing worse than your furry friend getting hit by a vehicle. It can be a terrifying experience for both of you and can usually be an emergency. While you might feel helpless and overwhelmed, you can take some steps to help save their lives and get the medical attention they need.
Here’s how:
1. Call the Vet
The first thing to do is call your vet. Try to remain calm and explain what occurred. Your vet can provide advice over the phone or advise that you bring your pet in for a checkup. They may advise you to take your pet directly to a Lakewood veterinary hospital if the accident is severe.
2. Keep Your Pet Calm
Keep your pet as comfortable and still as possible till help arrives. Gently restrain it from moving around too much and offer reassurance if needed. This will reduce its pain and suffering, decrease any additional injury and make it much easier for you or anyone else involved to handle the situation safely and securely.
It might be more challenging if your pet is in distress, but try to remain calm. This will help you focus on what needs to be done and provide a sense of control for you and your pet.
3. Assess Your Pet’s Condition
Carefully check your pet to see if it’s still conscious and breathing. If possible, check any visible signs of injury, like bleeding and broken bones, while you wait for medical attention.
Here’s what to look out for:
- Bleeding
- Broken bones
- Swelling
- Trouble breathing
- Disorientation or confusion
These external symptoms might indicate more severe internal damage, so have your pet checked by a vet immediately. Getting them appropriate veterinary care is vital, even if they seem fine.
4. Use Crate or Carrier to Transport to the Vet
Once you’ve talked with a veterinarian who advised you to take your pet to the clinic, use a pet crate for bigger animals or a carrier for smaller ones for transportation. This helps make sure they remain still and avoid more injury during transport.
It also makes it easier to control your pet buddy while providing it with a sense of security in an unknown environment. Furthermore, it can reduce the risk of being injured by other animals or individuals if you need to wait at the vet clinic before being seen.
5. Stay by Your Pet’s Side
Remain with your pet during their treatment and recovery period. This gives them emotional support and comfort during what may be an overwhelming time for both of you. Like humans, pets also have feelings and require care, comfort, and affection during difficult times.
Also, try to monitor your pet’s medical development, especially if they are younger. Ask questions regarding their diagnosis and treatment plan for puppy and kitten vet care, so you can be more informed on how to care for them after they are released from the facility.
Here are some guidelines on caring for your pets after being struck by a car during the recovery period:
- Monitor your pet’s activity closely and restrict their movement as needed.
- See to it that they obtain enough rest and quiet time.
- Provide comfortable bedding in a warm, quiet area to help them recuperate.
- Encourage drinking water and eating small amounts of food often.
- Administer any medicine prescribed by the vet as guided.
- Keep an eye on indications of distress or discomfort to identify whether additional medical attention is required.
6. Follow Your Vet’s Instructions
Always follow your vet’s instructions for looking after your pet after the accident. To aid with recovery, it’s important to follow any prescribed medications and dietary recommendations from the veterinarian. You should also give them lots of rest and comfort in your home.
On top of that, ensure to keep up with any follow-up appointments, so your pet can be given a thorough analysis and the most effective care possible. Ultimately, your vet may also suggest veterinary cold laser therapy to help your pet recover faster so it can get back to normal activities.
Keep in Mind
Accidents occur, so always be alert and aware of your pet’s activity outdoors. Make sure that they are properly restrained and supervised, as this will help in reducing the risk of them getting injured or worse. If you encounter a situation where your pet is struck by an automobile, avoid panicking, and don’t forget to act swiftly.
Following the steps outlined above, you can help your pet obtain the best care possible after being hit by a vehicle. And just like with humans, time and rest are often the best medicine.