Hit by Car

It is difficult to assess the extent of the injuries your pet may have sustained if it is hit by a vehicle.  Even though your pet may seem fine, it may have internal injuries that can only be diagnosed by a veterinarian.

In the event your pet is hit by a vehicle, stay calm and assess the situation.  Follow these directions:

If the pet is unconscious and/or non-breathing, you may attempt CPR.  You will be able to assess if the pet is breathing by viewing if the chest is rising and falling.  It is best to do CPR while another person drives you and your pet to the nearest veterinary emergency hospital.

If the pet is conscious and breathing, but unable to stand, fasten a muzzle around the pet’s mouth.  This is done to prevent the pet from biting you as a response from it’s potentially painful injuries.  See How to Make a Muzzle.  If you are unable to muzzle the pet, place a thick towel or blanket over it’s head.  Now it is safe to lift the pet into a vehicle.  Take it to the nearest veterinary emergency hospital ASAP.

If the pet is able to stand and walk after the accident, and is seemingly fine, it is still highly recommended that the pet be assessed by a veterinarian.  Internal injuries may still be present.  The pet may also need to be treated for shock.  As Registered Animal Health Technologists working at an Emergency Hospital, the author’s of this site have encountered many pet’s death as a result of the owner’s reluctance to pursue veterinary attention and suggested procedures such as x-rays or bloodwork.