Dog hit by car: what to do
Your safety comes first. Then stabilize for transport. Assume hidden injury until a veterinarian says otherwise.
Do this first
| Scenario | Hit by car / blunt trauma |
|---|---|
| Vet vs poison control vs ER | This is a veterinary emergency, not a poison-control case. Call the ER while someone drives. Poison control is only relevant if a toxin was also involved. |
Immediate action steps
- Move yourself and the pet only if the roadway is unsafe; prioritize human safety
- Muzzle only if the pet is conscious and not vomiting or airway-compromised, to reduce bite risk
- Support the body on a board or blanket; minimize twisting the spine
- Control obvious bleeding with clean, firm pressure
- Go to an emergency veterinarian immediately even if the pet walks away
Roadway reality
Do not become a second patient. Use hazards, wait for a gap, and move the dog only when you can do it without standing in traffic.
Painful dogs bite. A loose muzzle or towel wrap can protect you if the dog can breathe normally and is not vomiting. Skip muffling the face if airway compromise is possible.
Why the ER visit is non-negotiable
Dogs can walk on a broken pelvis, bruised lungs, or internal bleed for a while. Looking surprisingly okay is a known trap after blunt trauma.
Call the ER so radiology and shock care can be ready. Bring any videos of the incident only if it does not delay leaving.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.
FAQ
- My dog stood up and wagged — still go in?
- Yes. Walking after trauma does not rule out internal injury. Have a veterinarian examine the dog.