What should I do if my puppy has a fracture?

First, determine whether the puppy has a real fracture, which corresponds to the fracture symptoms below. If there is a true fracture, determine whether it is an open fracture or a closed fracture. Bandage the wound according to different fracture conditions and send it to a pet hospital for treatment.

Symptoms of dog fractures

1. The dog’s fractured area will be deformed, both ends of the fracture will be displaced, and the affected limb will shrink, bend, or extend in weird postures.
2. Dogs’ affected limbs often have symptoms such as bending or abnormal rotation, and friction sounds can be heard at the fracture site.
3. Symptoms such as swelling and bleeding will be seen on the external skin of the dog’s fracture site. The dog is not in good spirits, likes to lie down, and has poor appetite.
Note: If a dog is diagnosed with a fracture, he or she needs to go to the pet hospital to take X-rays.

How to fix open fractures in puppies

1. First, rinse the wound thoroughly with water. Do not use any other disinfectants to avoid affecting the future treatment process.
2. Cover the dog’s fractured wound with a clean cloth, sterile dressing or sanitary napkin.
3. Wrap the dressing with torn rags or other soft materials, and tie or tape it tightly with just enough force to hold it in place, but not too much force.
3. Do not try to use a splint to clamp the fracture. Improper operation by inexperienced people may easily infect the fracture wound. Then use a large folded towel to support the dog's unsplinted limb from below, and take the dog to the veterinarian immediately.

Methods for fixation of closed fractures in puppies

1. Without a veterinarian, it is very difficult to try to splint a dog’s amputated limb (the force required is moderate). The goal in managing any fracture is to minimize movement of the broken bone.
2. Place the dog in a carrier or box and take it to the veterinarian immediately. Choose a box that is stable and strong for transportation. It is best to choose a nearby pet hospital to reduce the fluctuations of the dog during transportation.

Precautions for dog fractures

1. If a dog’s fracture is found, it should be fixed and sent to the hospital promptly. Dog fractures will not heal on their own.
2. During the period of dog fracture, the dog should be given an appropriate amount of calcium supplement, such as calcium tablets, bone soup, soy products, etc.
3. During the period of dog fracture, attention should be paid to giving the dog a comfortable environment to recover, refrain from strenuous activities, avoid contact with other dogs, and prevent two dogs from fighting.