Managing Fractures and Skeletal Injuries in Pets

Introduction:

In this section of our first aid for pet owners series, we will discuss the important topic of managing fractures and musculoskeletal injuries in pets. Accidents or falls can sometimes result in broken bones or other musculoskeletal injuries, causing pain and discomfort for our beloved companions. Recognising the signs of a possible fracture and providing appropriate first aid can help stabilise your pet’s condition and prevent further harm until veterinary care is obtained. Remember, these guidelines are not a substitute for professional veterinary care, so always consult a veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and treatment.

1. Recognising the Signs of a Fracture:
   • Lameness or reluctance to weight bear: Usually if a fracture has occurred, your pet will have a noticeable limp, or be unwilling to put any weight on the affected leg. They may also vocalise or show signs of pain when attempting to bear weight on the leg.
   • Obvious deformity: There may be an abnormal angle or position of the affected leg. However, even if the leg looks to be in normal alignment this does not rule out a fracture. 
   • Swelling and pain: A fracture may result in localised swelling,  and bruising of the affected leg. It may be very painful and your pet may vocalise when the injured area is touched.
2. Providing First Aid for Fractures and Skeletal Injuries:
   • Keep your pet calm and immobile: Minimising movement will help to prevent further injury or displacement of the broken bone and will help minimise the pain your pet is feeling.
   • Protect yourself: If your pet is very painful they may bite, please ensure you are handling your pet safely to prevent injury to yourself. We recommend placing a muzzle, and using blankets to pick your pet up, when possible to keep yourself safe. 
   • Control bleeding: If there is an open wound with active bleeding apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. A light bandage can be placed to keep this cloth in place if your pet will tolerate this. Ensure this bandage is not tight, a tight bandage can interrupt blood supply to the lower limb and also may increase the pain experienced by your pet. 
   • Do not attempt to stabilise the fracture at home by placing a supporting bandage or splint. This can be very painful and may result in you getting bitten. 
3. Transporting Your Injured Pet:
   • Use a stretcher or a firm, flat surface: Gently lift your pet onto a flat, stable and secure surface to prevent uncontrolled movement or stress on the injured area.
   • If your pet is still able to walk on 3 legs, a towel can be placed under their stomach to use as a sling for support while they are walking. 
   • Seek immediate veterinary care: Fractures and skeletal injuries require professional evaluation and treatment, including x-rays and potential surgical intervention. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic to inform them about the situation and seek immediate assistance.

Remember, providing first aid for fractures and skeletal injuries is crucial, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The goal is to stabilise your pet and minimise pain and further damage until they receive appropriate medical attention.

Stay tuned for the next section of our Pet First Aid series, where we will discuss managing poisoning and toxicity in pets.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this series is intended as a general guide and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of your pet’s specific condition.

Managing Bleeding and Wounds in Pets

In this section of our first aid for pet owners series, we will discuss the important topic of managing bleeding and wounds in pets. Accidents or injuries can happen to our furry companions, and knowing how to handle bleeding and provide appropriate wound care can help minimise further damage and promote healing. While immediate veterinary attention is crucial for severe wounds, being prepared to administer first aid can make a significant difference in your pet’s well-being. Remember, these guidelines are not a substitute for professional veterinary care, so always consult a veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and treatment.

Steps for Managing Bleeding from a Deep Wound (exposing muscle or bone):

• Remain calm: Stay calm to help keep your pet calm and reduce stress during the situation.
• Keep yourself safe: If your pet is severely injured, anxious or painful they may bite or scratch. Use a muzzle or blanket when appropriate to allow you to help your pet in a safe manner.
• Apply gentle pressure: Use a clean cloth or sterile gauze pad to apply gentle pressure to the wound. This can help control bleeding.
• DO NOT apply any cleaning agents or antiseptics to the wound before it has been assessed by a veterinarian.
• Apply a bandage: A bandage can be placed over the gauze pad to hold gentle pressure on the wound. It is very important this bandage is not too tight. 
• Resist the urge to check under the bandage to check if the bleeding has stopped. The bandage should be left in place and the wound checked by a vet as soon as possible.

Steps for Cleaning and Dressing a Superficial Wound (not penetrating through the skin):

• Gently clean the wound: Use lukewarm water on a sterile pad to gently clean the wound. Avoid using any additives such as hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they can delay healing and cause tissue damage. The skin around the wound can then be carefully dried with a clean cloth.
• Trim surrounding fur: If the fur around the wound is obstructing proper cleaning or dressing, carefully trim it with pet-safe scissors. Take care to avoid getting hair in the wound while you do this.
• Apply an appropriate dressing: Not all wounds require a dressing, but if this is required it should be placed after cleaning. A sterile, non-stick dressing can be used to protect the wound from contamination and further injury. Secure it with a bandage or self-adhesive wrap, ensuring it is snug but not too tight to restrict circulation.
• If the wound is large or continues to bleed we recommend getting it assessed by your veterinarian as soon as possible.

How to Safely apply a Bandage:

IMPORTANT NOTE – a bandage applied incorrectly can result in serious injury to your pet. These instructions are a guideline for initial first aid, we always recommend a check with your veterinarian before leaving a home bandage in place longer than 1 hour. 

• The wound and surrounding area (including fur) should be clean and dry before a bandage is applied.
• It is recommended to use a non-stick sterile pad to cover any wounds that will be underneath the bandage. This will make removal of the bandage easier, and less painful for your pet.
• A light cotton wool layer should be applied over the sterile pad to hold it in place. When placing the bandage on a limb, start wrapping from the toes up towards the body. This layer should be snug, but not too tight.
• Finally, an outer layer of cohesive wrap can be applied over the cotton wool. It is very easy to place this too tightly – we recommend unwinding the roll and then loosely winding it up before applying to your pet. Do not stretch this material when applying to ensure it is not too tight. 
• If you notice any swelling of the bandaged limb, it becomes more painful, or your pet is reluctant to use the limb after placement of the bandage, the bandage may be too tight and will need to be replaced. 
• A home bandage should never be left on for more than 24 hours without consulting your veterinarian. 

Monitoring the Wound and Seeking Veterinary Care:

• Monitor for signs of infection: Keep a close eye on the wound for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or an unpleasant odour. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms.
• Prevent licking or scratching: Use an Elizabethan collar to prevent your pet from licking or scratching the wound, as this can introduce bacteria and impede healing.
• Seek veterinary care: Regardless of the wound’s severity, it is advisable to consult your veterinarian for further evaluation and appropriate treatment. They can assess the wound, provide necessary medications (such as antibiotics or pain relief), and guide you on proper wound care at home.

Remember, prompt and appropriate wound care can help reduce the risk of infection and promote faster healing. Even if the bleeding appears to be under control, it’s important to seek veterinary care for a thorough assessment and tailored treatment plan.

Stay tuned for the next section of our Pet First Aid series, where we will discuss managing fractures and skeletal injuries.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this series is intended as a general guide and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of your pet’s specific condition.

How to Safely Handle and Transport Your Injured Pet

In this section of our first aid for pet owners series, we will cover essential techniques for safely handling and transporting an injured pet.

When emergencies occur, it is crucial to ensure the safety of both yourself and your pet. Proper handling will help minimise the risk of further injury and allow you to transport your pet for prompt veterinary attention.

Approach with Caution:

• Speak calmly and reassuringly to your pet.
• Approach slowly, from the side, avoiding sudden movements that may startle them.
• Be aware that injured animals may be scared or in pain, increasing the risk of defensive behaviour (bites or scratches).

Use Equipment to Safely Handle your Pet:

Dogs

• A muzzle should be placed on all painful dogs as a precaution, before moving them or touching the painful area. If you do not have a muzzle, a strip of fabric or bandage can be gently tied around their nose.
• The exception to this rule is if your pet has injuries around their face or nose. In this case take care with placing a muzzle or covering their face as this may make it difficult for them to breathe.

Cats

• It is always safest to enclose an injured cat in a carry cage. If you do not have a carry cage available, a sturdy cardboard box with breathing holes could be used. 
• A towel can be used to gently cover the cat before picking it up to place in a carry cage.

Moving into a Car for Transport:

• Before moving or picking up your pet take note of the areas that are injured or likely to be painful. Take care to avoid touching these areas and try to provide support for them if possible.
• Cats and small dogs are best placed in a carry cage or crate. This provides a firm surface to limit movement which will decrease any pain from their injuries. It also allows them to be safely restrained for transport.
• Larger pets can be gently lifted onto a towel or stretcher, then moved into a car for transport. Ensure their neck and spine are supported while you are carrying them using the stretcher.
• If your pet is severely injured they will feel more secure on a solid flat surface, or in a crate. It is not recommended to physically hold your pet in the car while driving. 
• If your pet is unconscious or not fully responsive, they should be placed on their side with their head and neck in a normal position. Avoid bending their neck down towards the chest, or twisting the neck towards the body.  This position will ensure their airways stay open for unimpeded breathing. 
• Some pets will feel more comfortable during transport when covered with a blanket.

Don’t Panic

• It is very stressful dealing with an injured animal, especially when they are your beloved pet. Remaining calm will reassure your pet that you are there to help them. 
• Drive safely and responsibly to your veterinarian or nearest emergency clinic.
• If you are able please call ahead to your veterinary clinic to let them know you are on your way and an approximate time of arrival.

Disclaimer: It is important to remember that each situation may require different approaches to ensure the safety of both you and your pet. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about handling an injured pet, seek professional veterinary assistance immediately.

Stay tuned for the next section of our Pet First Aid series, where we will discuss managing bleeding and wound care in pets.

How to to recognise signs of an emergency in your pet

In this section of our first aid for pet owners series, we will discuss the important topic of how to recognise signs of an emergency in your pet.

Understanding what might be a sign of an emergency in your pet can be crucial. As pet owners we learn to understand lots of ways our pets communicate, whether they are hungry, need to go out, or when they want to play – but do you know the signs for when your animal is in distress? Some of them will be obvious, but not all.

Our pets can’t tell us, so being able to understand the signs of an emergency can make a huge difference. In this blog post we will explore the vital topic of recognising emergency signs in your pet. Being able to identify when your furry friend is experiencing a medical crisis is crucial for prompt intervention and ensuring their well-being. By understanding the signs of a pet emergency, you can take immediate action and seek veterinary care when necessary.

Difficulty Breathing:

• Rapid or laboured breathing: Your pet may exhibit unusually fast or shallow breaths, struggling to take in enough air.
• Choking or gasping for air: They may show signs of choking, coughing, or having difficulty swallowing.
• Bluish gums or tongue: If your pet’s gums or tongue appear bluish or grayish, it could indicate a lack of oxygen.

Uncontrolled Bleeding:

• Profuse bleeding from a wound or body orifice: Your pet may have an open wound or bleeding from the mouth, nose, or ears.
• Blood loss that doesn’t stop with direct pressure: If the bleeding continues despite applying gentle pressure, it requires immediate attention.
• Weakness or pale gums due to blood loss: Your pet may exhibit weakness, pale or white gums, or show signs of shock.

Loss of Consciousness:

• Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness: Your pet may not respond to stimuli, may appear disoriented, or be unarousable.
• Fainting or collapse: Sudden collapses or fainting episodes are significant indications of a pet emergency.

Severe Injury or Trauma:

• Deep lacerations or puncture wounds: Visible wounds that are deep, bleeding profusely, or exposing internal tissues require immediate attention.
• Suspected broken bones or limb deformities: If your pet has a misshapen limb, cannot bear weight on a limb, or shows signs of extreme pain, it could indicate a fracture.
• Severe pain or obvious distress: Your pet may exhibit signs of severe pain, such as constant whimpering, yelping, or aggressive behaviour.

Ingestion of Toxins or Foreign Objects:

• Ingestion of toxic substances (e.g., medications, chemicals, plants): If you suspect your pet has ingested a potentially toxic substance, it requires immediate veterinary attention.
• Swallowing of sharp objects or foreign bodies: Signs can include choking, gagging, excessive drooling, or retching without producing vomit.

Acute Abdominal Distress:

• Abdominal bloating or distension: A visibly swollen or distended abdomen, especially if it is firm or painful to the touch, may indicate a life-threatening condition.
• Unproductive vomiting or retching: Repeated attempts to vomit or retch without producing anything can be a sign of gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) or other gastrointestinal issues.
• Signs of severe abdominal pain or discomfort: Your pet may exhibit restlessness, pacing, or vocalizing in response to abdominal pain.

Inability to Urinate or Defecate:

• Straining without producing urine or faeces: If your pet is attempting to urinate or defecate without success or only producing small amounts, it could be a sign of urinary obstruction or constipation.
• Distressed vocalizations during attempts to urinate or defecate: Crying out, whimpering, or showing signs of pain while attempting to eliminate can indicate an emergency situation.
• Signs of pain or discomfort in the urinary or anal area: Your pet may excessively lick their genital or anal area, exhibit signs of discomfort, or have swollen or red tissue.

Heatstroke or Hypothermia:

• Excessive panting and drooling (heatstroke): When exposed to high temperatures, your pet may pant excessively, drool excessively, or have bright red gums.
• Weakness, shivering, or disorientation (hypothermia): In cases of extreme cold, your pet may display signs of weakness, shivering, difficulty walking, or mental confusion.
• Unresponsive to temperature regulation efforts: If your pet fails to respond to efforts to cool them down or warm them up, it requires immediate attention.

Seizures or Convulsions:

• Uncontrolled muscle twitching or shaking: Seizures are characterized by sudden, uncontrollable muscle twitching, shaking, or convulsions.
• Loss of consciousness during episodes: Your pet may lose consciousness or become disoriented during a seizure.
• Abnormal behaviour or disorientation post-seizure: After a seizure, your pet may appear disoriented, lethargic, or exhibit unusual behaviour.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other emergency signs specific to your pet’s species or health conditions. Trust your instincts as a pet owner and seek veterinary care if you observe any sudden, severe changes in your pet’s behaviour or suspect an emergency, even if the signs are not explicitly mentioned here.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care:

Anytime you observe one or more of the above emergency signs or notice any sudden, severe changes in your pet’s behaviour, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. Do not delay in contacting a veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic, as swift action can be critical for a positive outcome. Remember, you are your pet’s advocate, and your quick response can make a significant difference in their well-being. 

Stay tuned for the next section of our Pet First Aid series, where we will discuss safe handling and transport of injured pets.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this series is intended as a general guide and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of your pet’s specific condition.

We understand the importance of being prepared for animal emergencies. Pet first aid is a skill that can make a significant difference in ensuring the well-being of your pets in critical situations before professional veterinary assistance is available. 

Our team of animal emergency veterinarians have created this Pet First Aid blog series, which is an essential read for all pet owners. The information we will provide is designed to provide general guidelines only and can be used to help prepare for an unexpected situation. In an emergency we strongly recommend you contact your veterinarian or nearest emergency veterinary clinic as soon as possible for the best advice tailored to your pet. If you are in Auckland and have a pet emergency, you can contact our team on 09 849 2121.

In this introduction to pet first aid, we’ll start by explaining the unique aspects of pet first aid compared to human first aid, and guide you in assembling a practical pet first aid kit. 

The Importance of Pet First Aid Knowledge

As a pet owner, being equipped with basic first aid knowledge is essential. Accidents can occur unexpectedly, and our furry friends are not exempt from emergencies. By understanding pet first aid techniques, you gain the ability to provide immediate care during crucial moments, which can greatly improve outcomes and potentially save lives.

What Are The Differences Between Human and Pet First Aid:

While there may be some overlap between human and pet first aid, it’s vital to recognise that animals have distinct anatomical and physiological characteristics that require specific approaches to emergency care. 

A big difference between pets and humans is the presence of fur. Plasters and other dressings that work well on human skin will not adhere to a pets fur. If your pet has a wound, a full bandage will usually be required to ensure the wound remains covered. 

Pets will often try to lick wounds and foreign substances on their fur. Licking at wounds can cause further damage and lead to infection, and licking foreign substances can worsen a toxic exposure. An Elizabethan Collar can be placed to prevent pets from licking. 

As an owner you cannot explain to your pet that you are trying to help them. In a situation where the pet is severely painful or fearful, they may scratch or bite. It is important that you take steps to protect yourself – a muzzle can be used to prevent a dog from biting, and a towel can be used to gently restrain a cat.  

It is important to note that while some human medications can be used safely in our pets, there are a large number of medications that are harmful. We do not recommend administering any human medications to your pet without first seeking veterinary advice. 

Creating a Pet First Aid Kit:

Having a well-prepared pet first aid kit readily available is a proactive measure you can take to make sure you are ready for any pet emergencies. You should consider creating a small first aid kit for your pets that includes:

1. Basic Supplies:
   • Sterile gauze pads
   • Non adherent dressings
   • Soft cotton wool padded bandages 
   • Conforming bandages
   • Adhesive tape 
   • Alcohol wipes
   • Sterile saline solution
   • Cold pack
2. Tools and Accessories:
   • Scissors
   • Disposable gloves
   • Nail clippers
   • Tweezers or forceps 
   • Muzzle or fabric strips (to prevent biting in pain or fear)
   • Digital rectal thermometer
   • Towel or fabric stretcher 
   • Elizabethan collar
3. Information and Contact Details:
   • Pet’s medical records, including vaccination history
   • Contact information for your regular veterinarian and local emergency veterinary clinic

Having a pet first aid kit is the first step in making sure you are prepared for anything your pet may need. Our first aid series will guide you through some of the situations when you might need to use them, or when you might need an emergency vet and we will be posting new articles in this series on a regular basis.

To see more of our Pet First Aid Series Click Here