Fractures

Signs/symptoms

1. Animal will not put its weight on a particular limb.
2. There may be a swelling of the fracture area.
3. Fracture area painful when touched.

Treatment

1. Do not endanger yourself. If possible, muzzle the animal as previously described (see Moving An Injured Cat, Moving an Injured Dog).
2. Treat for any external bleeding (see External Bleeding, ), unless the fracture is "compound" (meaning a bone is exposed.
3. If the fracture is "compound," cover the area with a nonstick sterile pads. Do not attempt to clean. Using the nonstick sterile pad, apply pressure between the fracture and the animal's heart, slightly above the injury, to slow the loss of blood.
4. Immobilize the fracture area, only if it will not cause further injury/pain to the dog or cat (you'll know it when, for example, you try to move a fractured limb) and remember that the animal may already be in a great deal of pain.
5. To immobilize the fracture area, apply a splint using wood, cardboard, rolled-up newspapers or towels to both sides of the fractured limb.
6. If possible, extend the splint to the joint above and below the fracture site.
7. Secure the splint with gauze roll bandage or cloth strips above and below the fracture site, but do not secure at the level of the fracture.
8. If unable to splint, place the animal in a confined are (e.g., a well-ventilated box, cat carrier, etc.) to prevent movement and transport as described previously (see Moving An Injured Cat, Moving an Injured Dog.