My dog was hit by a car in the hind leg, eats very little, has lost weight, and has a small lump on one side of its belly – what could be wrong and what should I do?
Expert Answer
After a dog is hit by a car, a lump on one side of the belly may be local swelling or a hematoma caused by the crushing impact, but it could also indicate a tear in the abdominal wall or damage to internal organs. From the photos, the external wounds are also fairly serious and would likely need sutures. Therefore, it is recommended to take the dog to a veterinary hospital promptly for an examination to assess the injuries, and then proceed with appropriate treatment based on the findings – do not delay, as that could lead to far more serious consequences.
A dog hit by a car with a belly lump and weight loss needs a vet now, that lump could be internal bleeding or a torn abdominal wall, not just a bruise. I'd get him in immediately, the external scrapes are the obvious part, the hidden organ damage is the danger. Mine's cousin survived a similar hit because they didn't wait, so I'd rush, keep him still and warm, this is an ER, not a monitor-from-home situation.