A fracture refers to a break or crack in a bone. Fractures can be of various types, each with its own complications and treatment methods. While some fractures may heal with splinting, many require surgical intervention, particularly in toy breeds of dogs (e.g., Pomeranians, rat terriers, and similar small, long-legged dogs).
Fracture Types:
- Closed Fracture: A fracture with no associated external wound.
- Open (formerly Compound) Fracture: A fracture associated with open wounds, with the bone potentially visible.
- Dislocation: A joint injury where connective tissues are damaged, causing displacement of a bone.
- Sprain: An injury to a joint, ligament, or tendon near a joint, causing partial tearing or stretching without dislocation or fracture.
Other orthopedic injuries may involve torn ligaments, especially in the knee. Many large, athletic breed dogs may experience cruciate tears, leading to sudden leg use loss, joint pain, and knee swelling.
What to Do:
- Ensure personal safety by muzzling your pet to prevent biting injuries.
- Stop any bleeding with direct pressure.
- Cover open fractures with a sterile gauze dressing, a clean cloth, or a feminine pad. If possible, immobilize the pet on a large board for transport.
- If the pet can still use three legs, support the rear legs with a towel used as a sling.
- Discuss treatment options with your veterinarian, including a potential referral to an orthopedic specialist.
It is crucial not to attempt home splinting without pain medication due to increased biting risk, and certain fractures (like thigh or femur fractures) cannot be splinted. The best course of action is to keep the pet calm and seek immediate veterinary care.
What NOT to Do:
- Do not flush the wound with saline or water, as it risks driving contaminants deeper into the wound.
- Never attempt to set a fracture or push a protruding bone back into place.
- Avoid administering any over-the-counter or prescription medications without veterinary advice.
Signs of a fracture, dislocation, or severe sprain include sudden lameness or the refusal to use a limb. These signs may follow a significant fall or blunt injury. Obvious bone protrusion from a wound is rare; more commonly, an unusual angle or deformation of the fracture area and swelling are observed. Accurate diagnosis typically requires x-rays, often taken under sedation or anesthesia for the best results. Remember, an x-ray is the only way to accurately diagnose a fracture.
Don't have a vet in your area yet? We can help you find a local veterinarian.
If you have more questions, the GeniusVets Telehealth platform will give you unlimited access to text and/or video calls with board-certified veterinarians! To learn more click here.