What to do if a dog has been hit by a car

Emergency action must be taken if a dog has been hit by a car.

First check to see if there is any obvious bleeding. If the dog in unconscious, however, is breathing normally, press your finger on the gums to see if the blood returns. If it does not return it means that there may be severe hemorrhage.

If another person is available, support the dog's body without moving it's position and place on a blanket or coat. If by yourself, place the blanket along the dog's back, firmly grasp the skin over the neck and hips. Avoid touching the obvious injuries when moving a dog.

If a dog has been hit by a car, there maybe internal injuries therefore you need to take the dog immediately to the vet with the blanket as a stretcher.

If the dog is in shock or pain, make a muzzle out of cloth before attempting to movie him/her as he may accidently bite due to shock.

Even if the dog appears to be normal, there may be internal organ damage, therefore, still needs to be taken for veterinary care as soon as possible.

Gently feel each limb for broken and or dislocated bones. A dog with spinal injuries should be lifted on a flat board.

No pet owner wants their dog to be hit in traffic, prevention is the key. As much as Freedom looks silly in bright colored shirts, in winter time, as the days get shorter and the nights longer, I dress him in bright clothes so that cars can see him. He is black, however, even light colored dogs need some assistance in brightening their appearance for safety. The same goes for the owners. I have a habit of wearing a lot of black clothes, even in summer, however, wear special neon green pants (yes they look as horrible as they sound which is why they are my night time walking pants) as drivers see owners first before the dog.

On the same note, a lot of community adult education night courses offer 1 day seminars in dog emergency care. If not, you can always talk to your vet in regards to upcoming seminars.

Keep safe this weekend.

Luv Sheila & Freedom, my black lab