# If a Dog Is Hit by a Car

Part of the Dog Care Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/dog-care/guide/index.md)

*7. Dog First Aid*

> **7e.** Explain what to do if a dog is hit by a car.

A dog hit by a car may have injuries you can see and injuries you cannot. Broken bones, internal bleeding, shock, head trauma, and fear are all possible. This is a true emergency. The goal is not to fully treat the dog on the roadside. The goal is to keep everyone safe, reduce further harm, and get the dog to veterinary care fast.

### Step 1: Make the Scene Safe

Before rushing in, look for traffic and other hazards. A second accident helps no one. If possible, get adult help immediately and warn approaching drivers.

### Step 2: Approach Carefully

An injured dog may try to run, bite, or collapse. Use the precautions from [Req 7a](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/dog-care/guide/req7a/). Speak calmly, move slowly, and do not assume the dog recognizes you or understands what is happening.

### Step 3: Control Movement and Support the Body

If the dog must be moved, support it as evenly as possible. A board, blanket, or other firm surface can help move a dog while reducing twisting. Sudden movement may worsen fractures or internal injuries.

### Step 4: Get Veterinary Help Immediately

Even if the dog stands up, it may still have serious internal injuries. A dog hit by a car should be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

**Priorities After a Dog Is Hit by a Car** — Keep these in order

- [ ] **Protect people from traffic first**
- [ ] **Approach the dog carefully and expect fear or pain reactions**
- [ ] **Move the dog only if needed for safety or transport**
- [ ] **Use gentle support and avoid twisting the body**
- [ ] **Get to a veterinarian immediately**

The official video below provides a focused look at what to do in this kind of roadside emergency.

Video: [What to Do to Help a Dog Hit by a Car (video)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zidt9dhMEZ4)

> **Safety First!**
>
> Do not assume a dog is "fine" just because it gets up and walks. Shock and internal injuries may not be obvious right away, and delay can be dangerous.

> **Be Prepared! The Dog Tries to Run Into Traffic Again**
>
> If the dog is injured and panicking near a road:
>
> - **Do not sprint straight at it if that may drive it farther into danger.**
> - **Use a calm, low voice.**
> - **Create barriers with people or vehicles only if it is safe to do so.**
> - **Use a leash, blanket, or board if available.**
> - **Call emergency veterinary help or animal control if you cannot safely secure the dog.**

### This Is Why Preparation Matters

A dog emergency is easier to handle when you already have a plan, transport method, and supplies ready. That leads directly into the next requirement, which asks what should be in every dog owner's first-aid kit.

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- Next: [Dog First-Aid Kit](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/dog-care/guide/req7f/index.md)