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Pet Emergency
Spinal Injury
An accident such as an automobile crash may cause a spinal injury. The symptoms may not show up immediately, however. If your pet has gone through some physical trauma, monitor for the following:
a) A wobby gait
b) paralysis of one or more legs
c) Stiffening of one or more legs
d) Tenderness or swelling in the neck or the spinal area
e) Difficulty in breathing
f) Pain when the feet or legs are pinched
g) Probelms during urination or defecation
If you notice any of these signs, get immediate vet attention. A delay of treatment could mean the differentce between full and partial recovery. Is is vital in cases of spinal injury not to bend the neck and to kepp the spine straight. When you move the pet, use the stiff board method. See Moving an Injured Animal.