Shock is a very serious life threatening medical condition. It is characterized by a decrease in tissue perfusion to the point where cells are not receiving adequate oxygen and nutrients.

Blood carries oxygen and nutrients around the body; during shock this becomes insufficient to meet cellular needs and the reduced flow hinders the delivery of the components to the tissues. Many vital body functions are in a depressed state from lack of effective circulation. Because shock is life-threatening, it requires immediate attention.

Supportive care includes intravenous fluids and oxygen to reverse shock and prevent permanent organ damage.

The most common cause of shock is trauma; the most common and severe trauma for animals is being hit by a car. Other causes include fights, poisoning, insect stings, fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhea, burns, infections, heart failure and choking.

Some early signs of shock include a rapid heart rate and pale gums. Later stage signs include gums that are either pale or have a blue tinge; heart rate may be elevated, a weak pulse, cold extremities with a low body temperature and the animal is mentally depressed.

If there is external bleeding, it is obvious. Apply pressure and you can elevate a limb or the tail and you can apply a temporary tourniquet. Use a tourniquet with caution; it alone can cause severe damage to a limb. It is only suggested to use on a limb or tail if the bleeding is profuse and/or squirting. The tourniquet must be released occasionally but be aware that if a tourniquet is used, the tail or limb will likely need amputation. If the bleeding is so severe that a tourniquet is used, amputation is probably inevitable anyway.

Internal bleeding is harder to detect, there are no obvious external signs of blood. The gums will become pale and the animal’s extremities will become cold. The animal will become subdued. In order to help, it’s important to be able to recognize signs, begin first aid and safely transport the animal to a veterinary hospital.

You may need to make a temporary stretcher to place a large animal on or muzzle a dog if it is biting. Even friendly dogs will bite when injured and frightened. Don’t try and place anything in the animal’s mouth (water, medications), don’t make a dog walk if injured, don’t assume an animal is alright if it is not showing signs. Early signs of shock may be difficult to recognize.

CPR can be administered if needed. It is intended to provide blood flow and oxygen to the organs if the heart is unable to. Unfortunately it is usually unsuccessful in animals. The best chance the animal has is to get to an Animal Emergency clinic.

CPR consists of two parts; rescue -breathing and chest compressions to keep the lungs supplied with oxygen and keep the blood circulating. CPR is done as with humans, remember the ABCs; airway, breathing and circulation. Chest compressions and breathing go together as long as the airway is not blocked Make sure the animal’s heart has actually stopped and the animal is unconscious, ensure an open airway, extend the neck, pull the tongue foreword and sweep the mouth. Sometimes extending the tongue can initiate breathing. The breathing technique and chest compressions vary depending on the size of the animal.

Handle the injured animal gently and as little as possible, minimizing movement as not to cause damage to the spine or exasperate internal injuries, lay the animal on its side unless the animal resents it. Do whatever is most comfortable for the animal. When placing on a flat support/stretcher, keep the head aligned with the body, and make sure the head is lowered a little if the animal has vomited or is vomiting, cover with a blanket to keep warm; making sure the blanket is not so heavy that it impedes breathing. A blanket can also be used as a stretcher.

Fractures are common traumatic injuries that may cause shock. There are different types of fractures; closed (no external wound), open or compound with an external wound and sometimes the bone is visible or even protruding. There can also be a dislocation, sprain, torn ligaments and other serious injuries. If possible, stabilize the fractured limb before moving the animal.

The best thing you can do is be prepared by carrying a few simple supplies in your car and ideally take a first aid course for animals.