No bones about it: Car accidents leading cause of bone fractures in dogs
Here?s what you can do to reduce dog vs. car run-ins.
Being hit by a car is the main cause of serious bone fractures in dogs, according to an analysis of claims made by the Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (VPI). VPI looked at 5,000 claims filed in 2008 and determined that minor fractures result in costs anywhere between $1,500 and $3,000; possibly more. But these accidents are preventable.
“Broken bones are painful for pets, and costly for pet owners,” says Dr. Carol McConnell, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. “Injury prevention includes careful management of a pet’s environment by removing possible threats and eliminating situations that put pets at risk. To prevent accidents or injuries caused by moving vehicles, pets should be kept on a leash at all times.”
As the daylight hours get shorter, it’s also important to remember to “lighten up.” The danger of dog vs. car accidents increases during the months of October, November and December, according to the American Veterinarian Hospital Association. Owners should be reminded to dress in light colored clothing with reflective tape before taking their pets for walks in the evening.
