Make the scene safe
Pause before approaching. A frightened or painful dog may react unexpectedly, and traffic, water, heat, electricity or other animals may still present a risk.
Contact a veterinary professional
Call your vet or the nearest emergency practice as early as possible. Describe what happened, the dog’s condition and your location, then follow their instructions.
Prevent deterioration
Keep movement calm and proportionate, control obvious external bleeding with appropriate pressure and prepare safe transport. Do not give human medication.
Always escalate
Contact a veterinary professional early and follow their instructions. Do not give human medicines or delay urgent veterinary care to continue a checklist.