Transporting Your Injured Pet to the Hospital
By Samuel Dicker, DVM, DACVECC
Board Certified in Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care
Remember: This information does not replace consultation with and physical exam by a veterinarian. Always consult your veterinarian for advice about your specific pet. When in doubt about an emergency, call our VSEC emergency service and we can help guide you anytime, day or night: (914) 315-4600.
Pet injuries can be frightening. Knowing how to safely transport your pet to an animal hospital can help get them the care they need quickly, reduce the risk of additional injury, and keep them as comfortable as possible during the trip.
As an emergency and critical care specialist, here are a few simple tips I would encourage pet owners to keep in mind:
1. Call the Animal Hospital First
If possible, call your emergency animal hospital while you are preparing to leave. Let the veterinary team know what happened, what injuries you can see, and how your pet is acting. The team can provide guidance while you are on your way and prepare for your arrival.
At Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center, we’re available 24/7 for emergencies, so never hesitate to give us a call at (914) 315-4600. Learn more about the VSEC emergency and critical care service.
2. Handle Your Pet Gently
An injured or frightened dog or cat may bite or scratch, even if they are normally very gentle. Approach slowly and avoid unnecessary movement. If your pet is in pain, try not to touch the injured area. Stay away from their face as even the nicest animal can bite when they are in pain. Using a thick towel or blanket to pick up an animal can help keep you safe if they are apt to bite.
Never attempt to straighten a broken limb or push a protruding bone back into place.
3. Use a Carrier, Crate, or Makeshift Stretcher
For cats and small dogs, a secure carrier is usually the safest way to transport them. If your pet has a suspected spinal injury, severe trauma, or difficulty standing, keep their body as still and level as possible.
For a larger dog who cannot walk, a sturdy blanket can work as a temporary stretcher. If possible, have another person help you carefully lift and carry your pet.
4. Keep Your Pet Warm and Comfortable
Serious injuries can sometimes lead to shock, which may cause your pet to become weak, pale, or cold. Cover your pet loosely with a blanket to help maintain their body temperature, while taking care not to overheat them.
5. Don’t Give Food, Water, or Medication Unless Directed
Unless a veterinarian specifically tells you otherwise, don't give your injured pet food, water, or medications before arriving at the hospital. Your pet may need sedation, anesthesia, or emergency surgery, and having food in the stomach can increase certain risks.
Meet Dr. Greenberg who leads the VSEC surgery team.
6. Keep the Car Ride Calm
Keep the car at a comfortable temperature and minimize noise and stimulation. If someone can accompany you, having them monitor your pet during the drive can be helpful.
7. Stop Potential Bleeding
Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding which requires immediate veterinary attention. However, any external wounds causing bleeding should be stopped with gentle external compression. If bleeding is severe and on a limb, a tourniquet can be applied, but must be loosened briefly every 15 minutes.
We’re Here for You, 24/7.
When in doubt, call your local emergency veterinarian. Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center in Mamaroneck, NY has a 24-hour pet emergency department and specialists on staff. Call us anytime at (914) 315-4600.
