Recognizing a Possible Fracture

Visible deformity, inability to bear weight, and significant pain response to touch may indicate a fracture — a genuine injury requiring careful handling and veterinary evaluation.

Minimizing Movement of an Injured Limb

Limiting unnecessary movement of a suspected fracture or serious sprain, without attempting to realign or splint it without proper training, reduces further injury during transport to care.

Safely Moving an Injured Pet

Using a stable surface (a board, a towel as a makeshift stretcher for a small pet) to move an injured animal, minimizing additional stress on the injury, is safer than typical carrying or handling.

A Painful, Frightened Pet May Bite

An injured, frightened pet, even a normally gentle one, may bite out of pain or fear — approaching and handling an injured pet cautiously protects both the pet and the caretaker.