Auto Related Accidents/Hit By Car

Spring and summer are the time of the year when veterinary clinics are bombarded by dogs and cats that have been hit by a car. From mild bruises and scratches to life threatening injuries, automobile accidents can cause a great deal of stress for animal and owner alike. This article will discuss some of the most common injuries seen when an animal is hit by a car.

Shock. Many animals that are hit by a car will experience some degree of shock. This can be due blood or other fluid loss or just from the trauma itself. Animals in shock will often be listless, have pale, dry mucus membranes, a low blood pressure, an increased respiratory rate, an increased heart rate and a decreased body temperature. Stabilizing the animal is critical. IV fluid therapy, steroids, and other medications may be used.

Skin wounds. Skin wounds are probably the most common things seen when an animal is hit by a car. Wounds can vary from mild superficial abrasions to severe gashes and tears. Wounds that do not penetrate the skin layer will generally heal quickly and cause few problems for the animal. They should be kept clean and monitored frequently for signs of infection. Wounds that penetrate the skin layer and leave the deeper muscle, tissue, or bones exposed can be more serious. Having these wounds cleaned, debrided, and sutured by a veterinarian is often necessary for them to heal properly. 

Fractures. Broken bones are very common after an animal is hit by a car. The most commonly fractured bones are the long bones of the front and rear legs, such as the humerus, femur, and tibia, the ribs, and the bones of the pelvis. Surgical 

correction of bone fractures will depend on the location, severity, shape, and age of the fracture. Pins, plates, wires, screws, and external fixators may be used depending on situation. Non- surgical stabilization with a cast or splint may also 

be considered. Broken bones are often very painful for an animal. Quick veterinary care will assure the best chance for your animal to recover quickly and with the least amount of discomfort.

Head trauma. When an animal is struck in the front end by a car, there is a risk for head trauma. Nerve damage, skull fractures, brain and spinal cord injuries are all possible. Animals that have been hit by a car in the front end may experience seizures, incoordination, a head tilt, loss of normal mentation/alertness, among other things. Severe head trauma can be life threatening. 

Internal injuries. Damage to the organs contained within the chest, abdomen, and pelvis can occur when an animal is hit by a car. Many times and animal will have few external injuries and severe internal injuries. Some of the more common injuries that can occur include lacerated lungs secondary to broken bones, pneumothorax or extra air in the chest cavity, ruptured spleen and internal bleeding, and ruptured bladder with secondary peritonitis or internal infection. All of these injuries are very serious and extensive medical attention is often needed. 

Preventing your animal from becoming hit by a car is generally the best advise. Keeping an animal in a pen or in a fenced in yard to prevent roaming is one of the best ways to keep you pets from getting hit. Intact male dogs are more willing to

roam, so neutering can be one way to keep them home. In the event that your pet does get hit by a car, it is very wise for a veterinarian to examine him/her so that quick medical attention can be given if necessary.

See injuries from actual animals that have been hit by a car:

Oral Trauma. CLICK HERE.

**The pictures in this case are graphic in nature and may be disturbing for 

some individuals**

Lacerations and Skin Wounds. CLICK HERE

**The pictures in this case are graphic in nature and may be disturbing for 

some individuals**

Fractures. CLICK HERE

The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to take the place of your regular veterinarian. Please do not hesitate to contact your regular veterinarian if you have questions regarding your pet.