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Bone fractures in dogs
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
Most fractures are caused by car accidents and falls from heights. The most common fractures are to the femur, pelvis, skull, mandible, and spine. Fractures are classified as open or closed. An open fracture is one in which the bone is visible in the wound. Often, the bone pierces the skin. These fractures are contaminated with soil and bacteria and pose a high risk of developing a bone infection.
Signs of a bone fracture include pain, swelling, inability to bear weight on the paw, and deformity with shortening of the injured bone. Treatment: The injuries that cause fractures can also cause shock, blood loss, and internal organ trauma. Relief of shock should precede treatment of any fracture.
A dog that is in pain will often not cooperate and may bite in self-defense. Remember to take precautions to avoid being bitten. If necessary, muzzle your dog.
An open wound over the bone should be covered with a sterile dressing using several layers of gauze. If you do not have gauze, cover the wound with a clean cloth or towel and wrap it loosely. If bleeding continues, apply gentle pressure to the area.
Splinting a fracture can help relieve pain, prevent shock, and prevent further tissue damage while your dog is being transported to a veterinary clinic. The decision to splint is based on a number of factors, including the severity and location of the injury, the time it will take to seek professional help, the presence of other injuries, and the availability of materials. Remember that improper splinting can cause more harm than good. Do not attempt to splint a paw if your dog is resisting.
Always apply the splint to the paw in the position in which you found it. Do not try to straighten a bent paw.
A splint that immobilizes the joints above and below the fracture is considered effective. If the fracture is below the knee or elbow, wrap the paw with a magazine, newspaper, or piece of thick cardboard. A roll of cardboard, such as paper towels or toilet paper, can work if you cut it up. Position the splint from the toes to above the knee or elbow. Hold the splint in place with gauze, a tie, or string while you wrap it. Do not wrap it too tightly.
Fractures above the elbow and knee are difficult to splint. The best way to prevent further damage is to keep the dog from moving as much as possible.
Dogs in shock may be transported in a prone position, either on a hard surface or on a stretcher, to facilitate breathing and prevent a drop in blood pressure. Head and spinal cord injuries require special transport conditions.
Fractures in which the ends of the bones are at an angle to each other or are far apart must be realigned by a veterinarian under general anesthesia. This process is completed by extending the leg to overcome the muscular forces that are causing the displacement. The repositioned bone must be supported in this position. In most dogs, fractures above the knee or elbow are fixed with bolts or metal plates, while those below are immobilized with splints and casts. Fractures that involve joints usually require open surgery and reinforcement with bolts, screws, and wires.
The displacement of the lower jaw leads to the development of malposition of the teeth. The jaw must be adjusted and the teeth must be fastened together in order to maintain the correct position until complete recovery.
Depressed skull fractures may require surgical treatment to restore the depressed fragments.
- Transporting an injured dog
Lifting or transporting your dog incorrectly can cause further damage. Never lift your dog by the front legs, as this can cause a dislocated elbow or shoulder.
Carry a small dog in your arms, holding the healthy side of the dog close to you. If you have a large dog, wrap one arm around the dog's chest or between the front legs. Use the other arm to wrap the dog around the sacrum or between the back legs if you suspect a rear limb injury. Hold the dog close to your chest so that you don't let go if it starts to squirm.
Dogs in shock should be transported in a prone position, either on a hard surface or on a stretcher, to facilitate breathing and prevent a drop in blood pressure.
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