You may see or suspect fractured bones if your pet has an injury. Often broken bones can be caused by an underlying illness that weakens the bone. There are those where the factor is external, like a bad fall, a vehicular accident, or rough play. Naturally, a fur parent’s first reaction is to panic. If your head is unclear during scenarios like these, you may encounter more problems.
How to Manage Your Emergency
Open fractures are the kind where a bone protrudes from the flesh. Some are internal, and severe pain and immobility can be the symptoms. A vet website can be helpful if you need more info on suspected fractures. Follow these step-by-step directions to ensure your emergency is handled correctly.
Stay Calm
You need to remember to stay calm. Your pet can feel if you are freaking out and may respond the same way. You need to move your pet to a safe space. However, be careful, as pain may cause your pet to be aggressive and bite or scratch.
Ensure that your pet is contained, possibly in a crate. This can ensure restricted movement and prevent further complications.
Call the Vet
You may call a 24/7 emergency vet hospital ahead of time. This call is crucial as the veterinarian can provide you with first aid instructions, so describe the situation as detailed as possible. Also, the vet staff can prepare the needed equipment for urgent care upon your arrival.
Here are things to remember:
- Do not play veterinarian. Do not pull or try to set the bone; do not put any cream, ointment, or home concoctions on the afflicted location. Wait on the veterinarian to provide you with instructions.
- Have someone assist you in tending to your pet before and during the trip. If possible, put a muzzle to prevent any accidental biting. You need to keep the pet steady, specifically big dog breeds.
- As much as possible, elevate the affected area if there is significant bleeding in open fractures. Wrap the area and apply pressure as advised by the veterinarian. If the open fracture is on the chest, notify the veterinarian of any breathing troubles for the proper action.
What the Vet Will Do
As soon as you get to the veterinary hospital, the team will be there to assist you. Be ready for the following treatments to stay calm and mindful of directions. If possible, stay with your pet to make them feel secure.
Diagnosis
The veterinarian will examine the extent of the fracture and your pet’s state. Generally, pets are sedated or given pain medication. This permits the veterinarian and the staff to perform the essential tests and x-rays. Likewise, the vet will administer antibiotics and offer pain medication before the recommended treatment.
Treatment
Your pet might be put in a cast if the fracture is not severe. For open fractures, the vet orthopedic surgeon may need to operate. There are circumstances where the bones need to be pinned, or plates might require to be attached. For really bad cases, amputation might be necessary.
The Takeaway
If your family pet experiences any terrible accident and reveals indications of pain and fractures, visit the veterinarian. An x-ray of the affected location is essential. Likewise, remember that broken bones are not always evident and can be confirmed just after diagnosis.
Broken bones are not to be taken lightly. Broken bones are scary for the fur parent and unpleasant for the pet. With quick and appropriate action, they will heal with treatment by a vet.
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