How to Recognize and Treat a Rib Fracture in Dogs

If your dog has been involved in an accident that involves chest trauma, he may have a rib fracture. Typically the owner discovers the injury when rushing the canine to the vet after an accident. If treated, the prognosis for this condition is very good.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Evaluate your dog’s symptoms. Dogs that experience rib fractures may have pain while walking and difficulty breathing. Typically the owner is alerted of the problem when witnessing an accident involving the dog.

2. Take your dog to the emergency hospital. Contact the vet or emergency hospital and advice of your dog’s condition and arrival. Have someone carry your dog to the car to minimize pain and further injury.

3. Request a radiograph of the ribs. If your canine is in pain request medication to ease his discomfort. Ask for radiographs of the ribs and lungs to determine if a rib fracture is present.

4. Create a treatment plan with your vet. Determine if your canine will need surgery to stabilize the rib fracture. Generally a rib fracture may heal without surgery unless the injury is more serious. If your dog requires surgery pins or wires may need to be inserted to stabilize the area.

5. Keep activity to a minimum while your dog is healing. When you bring your dog home from the hospital reduce his activity. Put your canine on a leash during potty breaks to cut back on excess strain to the ribs.

Tips & Warnings

• Monitor your canine’s recovery closely. Examine your canine daily for any behavior or physical changes. If your dog experiences difficulty breathing or appears to be in pain contact your vet for an evaluation.
• Keep your dog’s stress to a minimum. When your dog is healing he needs a quite place to rest. Create a bed for him in a quite corner of your home. Wash all bedding and provide a few favorite items.

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