When you’re a pet owner, there’s absolutely nothing worse than your furry friend getting hit by a car. It can be a frightening 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 obtain the medical attention they require.

Here’s how:

1. Call the Vet

The first thing to do is call your Lakewood pet vet. Try to stay as calm as possible and explain what happened. Your vet can provide guidance over the phone or recommend that you bring your pet in for an examination. They may advise you to take your pet directly to an emergency veterinary facility if the accident is severe.

2. Keep Your Pet Calm

Keep your pet as comfortable and still as possible until help arrives. Carefully limit it from moving a bit too much and provide reassurance if needed. This will lower its pain and suffering, minimize further injury and make it much easier for you or anyone involved to deal with the situation safely and securely.

It may 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 inspect your pet to see if it’s still conscious and breathing. If possible, assess 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
• Difficulty breathing
• Disorientation or confusion

These external symptoms may indicate more severe internal damage, so have your pet examined by a vet as soon as possible. It’s also essential to get them an appropriate pet’s physical exam, even if they seem fine.

4. Use Crate or Carrier to Transport to the Vet

Once you’ve spoken with a vet who instructed you to take your pet to the clinic, use a crate for larger animals or a carrier for smaller ones for transportation. This helps make sure they remain still and prevent more injury during transport. 

It also makes it easier to control your pet buddy while giving it a sense of security in an unfamiliar setting. Moreover, it can minimize the possibility of being injured by other animals or people if you need to wait at the veterinary clinic before being seen.

5. Stay by Your Pet’s Side

Stay with your pet throughout its treatment and recuperation period. This gives them emotional support and comfort during what may be an overwhelming time for both of you. Like human beings, animals also have feelings and need care, comfort, and affection during difficult times.

Also, try to monitor your pet’s medical development. Ask questions about their medical diagnosis and treatment plan so you can be more informed on how to look after them after they are released from the facility. That’s why taking your pet to a reputable vet clinic like Red Rocks Animal Center is essential for proper care and attention. 

Below are some tips on taking care of your pets after being struck by a car during the course of their recovery:

• Monitor your pet’s activity very closely and restrict their movement as needed.
• See to it they obtain enough rest and quiet time.
• Provide comfortable bedding in a warm, peaceful area to help them recuperate.
• Urge drinking water and consume small amounts of food often.
• Administer any medication prescribed by the veterinarian as directed.
• Keep an eye on indications of distress or discomfort to determine whether additional medical attention is needed.

6. Follow Your Vet’s Instructions

Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions for caring for your pet after the accident. To help with recovery, it’s important to follow any prescribed medications and dietary recommendations from the veterinarian. 

You should also give them plenty of rest and comfort at home. On top of that, ensure to keep up with any follow-up consultations, so your pet can receive a thorough analysis and the best care possible.

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 reduce the risk of them getting wounded or worse. If you ever come across a situation where your pet is struck by an automobile, avoid panicking and remember to take action swiftly.

Following the steps outlined above, you can help your pet receive the best care possible after being hit by a car. And just like with humans, time and rest are typically the best medicine.