In an emergency, you must act immediately. An injured animal needs attention as soon as possible. A broken leg will most likely not end in fatality, but it can cause your chihuahua severe pain and to possibly become crippled in the future. You need to do as much as you can to prevent any further injury before getting to a trained veterinarian. You'll also have to watch for signs of shock, which include pale or white gums, rapid heartbeat or rapid breathing.
Things You'll Need
- Sterile bandage or cloth
- Muzzle or restraint
- Adhesive tape
- Water
- Ice pack
- Towel
Instructions
Examine the injury. Try as best as you can not to move the injured dog until the leg can be splinted.
Place a muzzle or restraint on the animal. Animals can become aggressive when they are in severe pain. Be sure the animal cannot move its head.
Clean, repair and dress wounds. If the wound is open be sure to flush it with clean water. Place the broken limb on the towel for support.
Find whatever you can to splint the leg such as a rolled newspaper, a stick, or a magazine, anything to keep the leg from moving. The object is to immobilize the leg.
Attach the immobilizing object, a stick for example, to the leg using first a cloth or sterile bandage. You will want a cushion between the stick and the broken leg. Wrap the cloth or sterile bandage around the leg, then place the stick against it.
Wrap the tape around the leg over the cloth or sterile bandage and stick. Wrap it firmly so the splint will stay in place, but be sure the wrapping is not causing your dog discomfort by being too tight.
Place an ice pack over the splint to reduce swelling.
Take your chihuahua to the nearest veterinarian to be further examined and taken care of. Try to make traveling as comfortable as possible for the dog, bringing possibly a blanket or towel for him to rest on.