Go to a clinic immediately if
- Bleeding does not stop, breathing is difficult, the pet cannot stand, loses consciousness or sustained a major impact or fall
- A penetrating chest or abdominal wound, vehicle strike, fall from height or major head trauma is an emergency even when external injury looks small
Possible signs
- A visible wound or bleeding, lameness, pain, rapid breathing, pale gums, weakness or behaviour change after trauma
- Abdominal enlargement, unusual quietness, confusion or feeling cold after trauma may indicate hidden bleeding
What it is
The severity of trauma cannot be judged by the visible wound alone. Injury to the chest, abdomen, head or spine, or internal bleeding, may initially be hidden; pale gums, rapid breathing, weakness, abdominal enlargement, confusion or collapse may signal shock. Pain and fear can also make a normally gentle animal react defensively.
What to expect at the veterinarian
The clinic will first assess the airway, breathing, circulation, bleeding, neurologic status and pain. Beyond visible wounds, chest or abdominal ultrasound or radiographs, repeated blood tests and observation may be needed because internal bleeding can declare itself later. Care may include oxygen, intravenous fluids or blood products, wound treatment, surgery and hospitalization.
Sources
- Guideline or consensus statement. Pet First Aid