🦴 Fractures and Injuries in Pets: 2025 Vet First Aid Guide for Broken Bones and Trauma 🐾🆘

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc 🩺

Accidents happen—and when they do, a broken bone, sprain, or dislocation in your dog or cat needs fast and safe care. Whether your pet was hit by a car, fell from a height, or landed wrong during a jump, it’s essential to stabilize them and prevent further damage until you reach the vet. In this 2025 guide, I’ll show you what to do if you suspect a fracture or orthopedic injury in your pet. 🐶🚑

🧠 What Is a Fracture?

A fracture is a break or crack in a bone. There are several types, each with different treatments and risks:

• 🩹 Closed fracture: The bone is broken, but there’s no open wound
• 🩸 Open fracture: The bone has punctured the skin, or there's an associated wound
• 🔁 Dislocation: A bone has moved out of a joint
• 🧬 Sprain: Partial tearing or stretching of a ligament around a joint

⚠️ Toy breeds like Pomeranians or rat terriers often need surgery for foreleg fractures—splints alone often fail. Always consult a vet. 🏥

🔍 Signs of a Fracture or Orthopedic Injury

• 🦵 Limping or non-use of a leg
• 📉 Sudden lameness or collapse after trauma
• 📏 Visible deformity or swelling
• 😢 Crying out or whimpering when touched
• 🩸 Open wound with visible bone (rare, but urgent)

🩻 X-rays under sedation are the only way to confirm a fracture’s location and severity.

🛟 First Aid: What To Do Immediately

1. 🧤 Safety First

• In pain, pets may bite—use a muzzle if possible
• Approach calmly and speak gently

2. 🩸 Control Bleeding

• Use direct pressure on the wound
• If bone is exposed, cover with a sterile dressing or clean cloth

3. 🧍 Immobilize If Possible

• Place the pet on a flat board or sturdy surface for transport
• Do NOT attempt to set or reposition the fracture yourself

4. 🧼 Keep the Pet Calm and Still

• Minimize movement to prevent further injury
• Speak softly and avoid sudden sounds or motion

5. 🚗 Transport Carefully

• Use a towel sling under the rear legs if front legs are working
• Call your vet or emergency clinic while en route

🚫 What NOT to Do

• ❌ Do NOT try to push a bone back into the body
• ❌ Do NOT flush open wounds (this can drive debris deeper)
• ❌ Do NOT give any medication unless directed by a vet
• ❌ Do NOT try to splint without proper training—it can worsen the injury

🩺 What to Expect at the Vet

• 🩻 Sedation and X-rays to diagnose fracture type and location
• 🔧 Splinting, casting, or orthopedic surgery
• 💊 Pain management and antibiotics (if needed)
• 📆 Long-term care plan and follow-up visits

📦 First Aid Kit for Orthopedic Emergencies

• 🧤 Gloves and muzzle
• 🩹 Gauze pads and clean cloths
• 🧊 Ice pack for swelling (wrapped in a towel)
• 🛏️ Towel or blanket for sling support
• 📞 Emergency vet contact card

📲 Not Sure If It’s a Break? Ask A Vet

If you’re not sure whether it’s a sprain, dislocation, or full fracture, the Ask A Vet app can help right away:

• 💬 Live chat with licensed veterinarians 24/7
• 📸 Upload photos or videos of the injury
• 📋 Get stabilization tips and safe transport guidance

Visit AskAVet.com or download the app now. When bones break, quick and calm action can mean the difference between recovery and complications. 🐶🦴🩺