Common pet accidents

Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and when our pets are involved, the emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming. Being aware of the most common pet accidents, their potential costs, and how to respond can make all the difference in protecting your dog or cat.

How Common Are Accident-Related Claims?

According to Dr Amelia Bunker, who assesses many of the Knose Pet Insurance claims, accident and injury cases are seen daily. The most common pet accidents are often linked to car-related incidents, such as pets being hit by vehicles.

These accidents frequently occur during stressful events like thunderstorms or fireworks. In such moments, frightened pets may try to escape their homes or yards, putting them at greater risk of injury.

Other common pet accidents seen in clinics include:

• Broken bones from falls or collisions.

• Spinal injuries from being hit or landing awkwardly.

• Cuts and wounds from glass, fences, or sharp objects.

How Much Can Treatment Cost?

The cost of treating injuries from common pet accidents can vary dramatically. Amelia notes that some claims can exceed $20,000 to $25,000, particularly when dogs suffer multiple broken legs or severe spinal trauma.

While minor injuries may result in manageable vet bills, serious accidents often lead to unexpected financial blowouts. This highlights why many pet owners turn to pet insurance to help cover the costs of those unpredictable emergencies.

What Should You Do If Your Pet Is Injured in an Accident?

If you ever come across an animal injured in an accident, staying calm and safe is the top priority. Here are some essential steps recommended by vets and emergency responders:

1. Keep yourself safe first. Avoid rushing onto busy roads or unsafe areas.

2. Use a towel or blanket. Covering an injured pet can help keep them warm and reduce shock.

3. Approach carefully. Stressed or injured pets may lash out unintentionally, so protect yourself from bites or scratches.

4. Get to a vet quickly. Call ahead to let the clinic know you’re coming so the team can be ready to assist immediately.

These simple actions can provide comfort and potentially save your pet’s life during a crisis.

How to Prevent Common Pet Accidents

While not every accident is avoidable, taking preventative steps can reduce the risk:

• Secure fences and gates to prevent escapes.

• Microchip and tag pets so they can be returned quickly if lost.

• Provide safe spaces indoors during fireworks and thunderstorms. For further tips for keeping your pet safe during fireworks or storms, click here.

• Use leashes and harnesses near roads or unfamiliar environments.

• Pet-proof your home by removing toxic foods, plants, and small objects that could be swallowed.

By being proactive, owners can minimise the likelihood of their pet experiencing one of these all-too-common pet accidents.

The Role of Pet Insurance

Even with the best care, accidents can still happen. Having pet insurance provides peace of mind knowing you won’t have to choose between your finances and your pet’s health in an emergency.

Policies can help cover costly treatments that come with severe injuries, ensuring your furry friend gets the best chance at recovery.  To learn how Knose Pet Insurance can cover you and your pet from common pet accidents, and other illnesses, click here. 

Lara Shannon is a certified dog behaviourist and trainer, pet food nutrition specialist, Executive Producer and Host of Pooches at Play on Channel 10 and editor of Poochesatplay.com. Lara also runs her own dog training business in Melbourne’s Bayside area and is the Author of World of Dogs and Eat, Play, Love (Your Dog).