As careful as we are with our pets, some circumstances are beyond our control. If your pet escapes from your home or gets off their leash, they are in danger of accident or injury. Knowing what to do if your pet is hit by a car can help you save their life. Here are the most important things to do if your pet is hit by a car in Seattle, WA.
Stay Calm
While it will be hard to remain calm, your best chance of getting your pet to a veterinary hospital quickly is by being able to think clearly and act fast.
Move Your Pet Carefully
As soon as it is safe to do so, carefully move your pet out of the road. If possible, put them on a rigid, flat surface covered with a towel, like a board, the plastic tray from a pet crate, or even a piece of cardboard. If you can’t find a rigid surface to use for transport, wrap your pet in a towel or blanket.
Check Your Pet’s Injuries
Quickly check your pet’s injuries. If your pet is bleeding, apply gentle pressure on the wound with a clean cloth, towel, or piece of clothing. Assess your pet’s breathing and heart rate.
Call an Emergency Veterinarian
Call the closest emergency veterinary hospital. Explain the circumstances and do your best to explain your pet’s injuries. Let them know you are on your way.
Protect Your Pet During Transport
Do your best to protect your pet and keep him comfortable while you are on your way to the emergency veterinary hospital. Speak softly and calmly and keep pressure on any areas that are bleeding.
Do Not Treat Your Pet at Home or Medicate Your Pet
While it may seem like a good idea to try to ease your pet’s pain by giving them medication or a sedative, it can actually be very risky. You may not know the right dose to use, or the medication may be toxic to pets. You also shouldn’t try to treat your pet at home. Your pet requires emergency care if he is hit by a car, even if it seems like the injuries are minor. They may have internal bleeding or other internal injuries you are unaware of.
Finding an Emergency Veterinarian if Your Pet Is Hit by a Car
It’s best to take your pet to the closest emergency animal hospital if they are hit by a car, and you should seek professional veterinary care right away. Call the hospital or clinic ahead of time to let them know you’re on your way. They may give you advice or recommendations for caring for your pet during transport.
At Emerald City Emergency Clinic, we offer 24/7 emergency pet care in Seattle, WA. Our emergency pet clinic is open 365 days a year and specializes in emergency triage services, emergency diagnostics and surgical services, and routine veterinary services. Call now to let us know you’re coming in for a pet emergency.
