Hit by car: when to go to the ER
For car strikes, the ER is the default. Phone advice can guide transport details; it should not replace the exam.
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
- Treat any car impact as ER-worthy
- Stabilize for transport using the action list above
- Call the ER while someone drives
- Skip poison control unless a toxin is also involved
- Do not wait overnight because the pet seems embarrassed but okay
Why morning appointments are the wrong frame
Trauma clocks run in hours. Lung bruising and internal bleeding do not respect clinic opening times.
If distance to the ER is long, still go. Call for guidance on what to watch during the drive.
Rare exceptions still need a live clinician
A veterinarian might later decide a minor scrape needs only wound care. That decision comes after evaluation, not from a search page.
If cost is the fear, say so at triage. Many ERs will discuss essentials first. Delay is usually the more expensive path when trauma is real.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.
FAQ
- Can my regular vet see us instead?
- If they can examine trauma now and transfer if needed, call them. If they are closed or lack emergency capacity, go to the ER.