Pulmonary Contusion in Dogs: Signs, Treatment & Recovery 🩺

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Hello—I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc, veterinarian and Ask A Vet founder. Pulmonary contusion, or lung bruising, is a serious condition following chest trauma. It’s common in accidents, but with prompt care and monitoring, most dogs recover well. In this vet‑approved guide, you'll learn:

• ✅ What pulmonary contusion is,
• 🛠 Common causes and risks,
• 🐾 How to recognize signs and symptoms,
• 🔬 Diagnostic methods,
• 💉 Supportive treatment and recovery tips,
• 📈 Long‑term outlook and follow‑up.

1. What Is Pulmonary Contusion?

Pulmonary contusion is a bruise within the lung tissue caused by blunt trauma, leading to bleeding and fluid buildup that hinders oxygen exchange.

2. How Dogs Get It

• 🚗 Common after car accidents, falls, or blunt force.
• 50% of chest injuries involve lung contusion.
• Likely with accompanying injuries—broken ribs, pneumothorax, hemothorax.

3. Recognizing Symptoms

• 😰 Rapid or labored breathing (tachypnea, dyspnea)
• 🐶 Weakness, pale gums
• 🔊 Harsh lung sounds—crackles or wheezes
• 💥 Coughing, possibly with blood
• 🔹 Signs may worsen over 24–48 hours.

4. Diagnosis Methods

• History & exam: recent trauma, symptoms.
• Chest X‑rays: interstitial/alveolar patterns; may be delayed hours after injury.
• Advanced imaging: CT or ultrasound for early detection.
• Bloodwork & pulse‑oximetry: assess oxygen levels and overall health.

5. Treatment & Supportive Care

• 💨Oxygen therapy to improve breathing.
• 💧 Careful fluid therapy, avoid overload.
• 💊Pain management for rib fractures.
• 🛌Cage rest and minimal activity until healing progresses.
• 🏥 Hospitalization for moderate to severe cases; ventilation may be needed if breathing fails.
• 🔍 Monitor for complications: pneumonia, pneumothorax, hemothorax.

6. Recovery & Prognosis

• Most improve in 2–3 days; full recovery in 7–10 days.
• Mortality ~7%; worse with shock or other injuries.
• Long-term lung changes are rare but can include fibrosis or reduced function.

📌 Final Thoughts from a Vet

Pulmonary contusion is a serious but often treatable consequence of chest trauma. Early recognition, supportive oxygen and pain care, controlled fluids, and rest typically lead to good outcomes. Hospital monitoring and addressing complications ensure your dog's path to full recovery. 🐾❤️