Dog Head Injuries

Causes

Car accidents are common causes of serious physical damage in dogs, often resulting in head injury, bone fracture and blood loss from open wounds.

Epilepsy is also related head trauma in dogs, as recurrent seizures can be both a cause and an effect of skull fracture or intercranial pressure.

Everyday collisions with moving playground equipment, such as swings or baseball bats may knock your dog out and cause head injuries. Puppies and small breeds are especially susceptible.

A mild head injury may simply disorient your dog for a short period. Bleeding from the nose or ears, however, may indicate head trauma due to a skull fracture or swelling of the brain tissue.

Serious damage sends dogs into shock, requiring immediate veterinary assistance. Symptoms of shock include shallow breathing, very red gums that turn pale and low body temperature. Pulse may be rapid and then fade, accompanied by weakness, glazed eyes and physical collapse.

If your dog suffers a serious head injury and shows signs of shock, prepare to transport it to the vet right away. To avoid bites, tie a sock around your dog's muzzle. Keep your pet as still as possible while you treat any other conditions, such as bleeding or breathing problems. Use a blanket or towel covering to retain body heat. Using another one as a stretcher, gently move your dog to the car.

Call the vet, if possible, to alert staff of your arrival. The doctor may have just minutes to save your pet. A quick exam will indicate what must be done to stabilize the animal. Intravenous fluids, medication and oxygen may be necessary.

When the danger is past, more in-depth checks will be made for bone fractures and neurological damage, as well as any secondary effects of shock, such as eye abnormalities.

Many dog head injuries are preventable if pet owners will be diligent about safety rules. It only takes one slip-up to induce a potentially fatal head trauma.

Watch puppies and small breeds around rocking chairs and recliners. Serious head injuries can even occur when little ones are stepped on. Secure your pets before backing your car out of the driveway. When not in an enclosed area, keep your dog on a leash.