Urgent — same day vet contact

How to safely move an injured dog or cat

Use a board, blanket, or coat as a stretcher; muzzle a painful dog (never a cat); keep the spine straight; minimise handling.

Dog Cat

Recognise the signs

Visible injury or deformity
Severe pain
Inability to walk
Suspected spinal injury (paralysis, dragging legs)

First aid steps

Approach calmly — injured pets bite from pain.
Muzzle a dog (improvised tie or lead loop) UNLESS vomiting, choking, struggling to breathe, or facial injury. Never muzzle a cat — wrap in a thick towel instead.
Slide a board, coat, or blanket under the pet, keeping the spine straight.
Cover with a blanket for warmth and security.
Lift evenly with one or two people supporting.
Keep movement minimal during transport — see while_transporting.

Do NOT

Do not muzzle a vomiting, choking, or struggling-to-breathe pet.
Do not pull on injured limbs.
Do not let the head dangle.
Do not lift by scruff or limbs.

While transporting to the vet

Lay flat on the side, head extended, blanket cover.
Phone the vet ahead.
Drive smoothly.

When to phone the vet immediately

Spinal injury suspected — keep absolutely flat, do not bend.
Severe bleeding, breathing difficulty, unresponsiveness.

Common causes

RTA, fall, fight, suspected fracture or spinal injury
Severe illness or collapse

What the vet will need to know

Mechanism of injury
Visible deformities
Conscious or unconscious
Movement of limbs

Aftercare

Per specific injury — fracture, RTA, spinal entries.

Prevention

Take a Pet First Aid course for hands-on practice.
Keep a board or stretcher-suitable item in the car or near the dog area.

Frequently asked questions

How do I muzzle a dog without a muzzle?

A tie, lead, or bandage looped over the muzzle and tied behind the head — quick to learn from videos. Never muzzle a dog struggling to breathe.

Can I lift a cat by the scruff if injured?

No — scruff lifting in adult cats is uncomfortable and worsens fear. Wrap firmly in a thick towel and support the body.

Should I splint a broken leg?

Only if comfortable doing so without distress to the pet. Most owners are better placed transporting carefully without a splint than applying one badly.