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Recognizing Pet Emergencies: How to Know if a Dog Fall Is Serious?
Dogs are naturally curious and like to explore their surroundings. This can sometimes lead to them getting into situations where they may fall from a height.
While most falls are not serious, some can lead to severe injuries, which may require surgeries like soft tissue surgery for dogs. It is crucial to recognize the signs of a serious fall so that you can get your pet the help they need as soon as possible.
When Is a Dog Fall Serious?
There are a few scenarios in which a dog fall may be considered serious:
- If your dog falls from a height of 6 feet or more
- If they cannot walk or put weight on their legs after the fall
- If they are bleeding excessively from any wounds
- If they seem to be in pain or shock
What to Do If Your Dog Has Fallen
If you think your dog has suffered a serious fall, you should seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Sometimes, such as when a dog is bleeding excessively or appears in shock, you need to take them to an emergency vet clinic, such as this Tigard Emergency Pet Hospital, if you’re nearby.
You can make an appointment with your regular veterinarian for less serious falls. They will likely perform a physical examination and may order x-rays and CT scans to check for broken bones and internal bleeding. Click on this link to know more about how it works.
If your dog does not seem to be in pain and can walk normally, they may have bruises. In this case, you can monitor them at home and see if their condition worsens.
Preventing Dog Falls
The best way to manage a dog fall is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Some tips for doing this include:
- Watch out for your dog when they are outside and supervise them around potential hazards, such as stairs, cliffs, and ledges.
- Ensure your home is safe for dogs by blocking off any areas where they could fall.
- Consider using a harness or leash when taking your dog on hikes or walks in areas where they may be exposed to fall hazards.
To Sum Up
Falls can range from being a minor inconvenience to causing severe injuries in dogs. You should know how to recognize the signs of a serious fall to get your pet the help they need as soon as possible.
In addition, you can help prevent falls by keeping an eye on your dog and taking precautions in areas where they may be exposed to fall dangers.