How a Vet Treats a Broken Leg
If your beloved pet is injured, your first instinct is to get the animal to the vet quickly. First, for the sake of the animal, remain calm. The vet will require your assistance to begin proper treatment. The way you prepare the animal for transportation is very important to in providing part of the assistance.
Prepare Animal for transportation
To reduce pain, lower the risk of additional accidents and avoid infection of open wound, wrap the animal (depending on the animal and size) securely in a blanket or towel to prevent movement of the limb. Remember their natural instinct can make them aggressive when they are in pain.
Veterinary Care
First, the vet will examine the wound to determine the type of break. Typically, fractures are either “open” or “closed.” An open fracture occurs when the skin over the fracture is open the bone is exposed, while with closed fractures, the skin over the affected area remains intact. There are also certain situations in which the bone fracture is incomplete and is referred to as a hairline fracture. An animal with a hairline fracture may not exhibit the typical symptoms associated with open or closed fractures. A hairline fracture is painful and requires equal care.
Diagnosis and treatment may include the following
- Administering medications to control the pain and a general anesthetic to stabilize the bone.
- A series of X-rays to determine the seriousness of the break.
- A clean break usually requires setting the bone, wrapping and applying a splint.
- Serious fractures will require surgery, possible use of screws or hardware.
- After surgery, medications and rehabilitation will be prescribed.
A beloved pet is a member of our family. To ensure many happy years of love and companionship, they should receive the best medical care available. A healthy pet is a happy pet.