Did you know that dogs can get the same types of injuries as humans?
From slips and falls to gunshot wounds and horrific traffic accidents, dogs are prone to get injured too. But, a few dog injuries will look different than typical human injuries.
Not sure which injuries are serious and life-threatening for your fur baby? We got you covered.
Read on to learn more about common dog injuries that you need to look out for.
Swallowed Objects
One of the most common dog injuries is swallowing objects. Swallowed objects can range from small objects like coins or batteries to larger objects like bones or toys.
In most cases, the object will pass through the dog’s digestive system without any problems. In some cases, swallowed objects can obstruct the digestive system. This can be life-threatening.
If you think your dog has swallowed an object, it is important to take them to the vet immediately. Don’t assume that the threat will be gone if you ignore it.
Knee Ligament Tears
The knee is a joint where the thighbone meets the shinbone and gets held together by ligaments. These ligaments can get torn if the joint is suddenly extended beyond its normal range of motion. This can happen if the dog twists or turns suddenly or if it lands awkwardly after a jump.
Torn ligaments are very painful and can make it difficult for the dog to walk. Surgery is often required to repair the ligament. In some cases, the ligament can heal on its own with rest and physical therapy.
Bite Wounds
Bite wounds are a common type of injury in dogs. These bite wounds can range from minor to severe. You may not even know that your dog paw infections were from bite wounds.
Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the wound, but all bite wounds should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. The most common complication of a bite wound is infection, so prompt and proper care is essential.
Fractured Teeth
Fractured teeth are a common dog injury, especially among dogs who chew on hard objects. The most common type of tooth fracture is a chip, which can occur when a dog bites down on something hard. If the chip is small, it may not be noticeable.
Meanwhile, larger chips can cause pain and may make it difficult for a dog to eat. Fractured teeth can also lead to infection, so it is important to take your dog to the vet if you think he or she has a fractured tooth.
Major Trauma
Major trauma can result in serious, even life-threatening, consequences. Dogs are susceptible to major trauma due to their size compared to other animals and objects.
Common causes of major trauma in dogs include car accidents, getting hit by a car, and falling from a height. Injuries sustained in these accidents can range from broken bones to internal organ damage. These can need immediate and expensive veterinary care.
Trauma can also result in long-term problems, such as chronic pain and disability. So, it is important to be aware of the risks and take precautions to prevent major trauma in dogs.
Look Out for Common Dog Injuries
Looking out for common dog injuries is important because it can help you catch problems early and get your dog the help he or she needs. If you see anything that concerns you, don’t hesitate to take your dog to the vet.
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