First aid for broken bones

Overview

• Broken bones are extremely painful and require immediate veterinary attention.
• If your pet has broken a bone, be very careful when moving them. They are likely to be in a lot of pain and may bite you if they are scared and hurting, use a muzzle to protect yourself.
• Call your vet for advice immediately if you suspect your pet has a broken bone.

What to do if your pet has a broken bone

Step one: Check your pet

• Check your pet for any other injuries.
• Have they been hit by a car? If so, they could have internal injuries.
• Do they have pale gums? Pale gums can mean they have lost blood, or that they are in shock
• Do they have any wounds? If so, cover them with a clean bandage or cloth. Wounds around a broken bone can allow very serious infections to develop.
• Are they bleeding? Control bleeding by applying light pressure.

Step two: Move them to a safe place

• Avoid touching or moving their painful area.
• Don’t allow them to walk if they have broken a leg.
• Carry them using a flat surface such as a board if you suspect they have a spinal injury.

Step three: Call your vets

• If your pet is unable to stand or walk, call your vet for an emergency appointment.
• If your pet is able to walk, call your vet for further advice.
• Do not give your pet anything to eat or drink until you have spoken to your vet.

Published March 2020