What to do if your Pet has a Head Injury

Head injuries in dogs can be extremely serious.

They may be less obvious than in humans and harder to detect as dogs can’t talk. Also, the immediate effects post trauma may be subtle and easily missed.

 

First steps if your dog injures their head

 

  • Remain calm – your dog will pick up on your stress
  • Phone a local vet immediately
  • If your dog has external wounds that are bleeding profusely. Apply direct pressure with a clean non-fluffy cloth.
  • Keep the animal warm and carefully transport them to the Veterinary Surgery.

All pets that have experienced a head injury should be checked by a vet.

 

Common causes of head injuries in dogs

 

Being hit by a car, is the most frequent cause of concussion, however any trauma to the head can result in an injury.

Head injuries in dogs can also occur from interactions other dogs or trees, being kicked or hit by humans, falls or as a result of something falling onto them.

Most commonly, concussions result from “blunt trauma,” but they can occur during an attack by another animal, if a dog is shaken or thrown to the ground.

 

Common signs and symptoms of head injuries in dogs

 

If a dog is bleeding from their head, always be vigilant for signs of more serious head trauma, if they have fallen from a height or been underneath falling debris consider that they could have suffered a head injury.

Concussion can manifest in a variety of ways, including:

  • Lethargy or sleepiness
  • Possibly weakness, maybe just down one side
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Coordination problems or difficulty walking
  • Rigid or flaccid limbs
  • Bleeding from the ears or nose
  • Abnormal eye movements
  • Differences in pupil size
  • Pale gums
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness

 

If your dog appears to be behaving strangely or exhibiting any of the above symptoms always get them seen by a Vet as soon as possible—even if you aren’t aware of any head trauma. These symptoms can be an indication of other potentially serious injuries or illnesses and they should be checked by your Vet.

Generally, dogs make a full recovery from a concussion, but delayed treatment or extreme head trauma can lead to permanent brain damage or death.

 

Seizures

 

A bang on the head can cause them to have a seizure.

If they have a seizure, you should protect them from further danger; phone the vet, dim lights and remain as quiet as possible whilst the seizure continues, put them in the recovery position once the seizure finishes.

 

What your Vet may do

 

Your Vet is likely to undertake a neurological examination to assess the extent of the head injury and look for possible signs of damage to the brain.

They will control bleeding and advise you as to next steps.

Your pet is likely to take time to recover from their head injury.

During this period, you should keep a close eye on them. Help them to remain as relaxed as possible and refrain from strenuous activity and long walks.

 

 

First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for veterinary advice. The author does not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies or for any mistreatment or misdiagnosis of any person or animal, however caused. It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid for Pets course or take our online course to understand what to do in a medical emergency.