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Question: Possible concussion for puppy chihuahua?

(Posted by: Cookie Monster on 2010-03-09 20:34:00)

I'm dogsitting for a 2 month old chihuahua. i was holding him and he was wiggling, so i went to put him in his cage, and he jumped out, hit the side of the cage and then landed on his side on the floor. for a whole minute he held his back and front legs straight and yelped 3 times. then he finally started moving a little, and threw up and then just wanted to sleep. i wouldn't let him sleep, because i wanted to know if he was ok. so i put him on his feet, and he could walk ok. besides taking him to the emergency pet clinic (because it's late at night).. do you think he'll be ok? i'm sooooo worried...

Posted by: Pixie Chick on 2010-03-09, 20:42:10

It is a little concerning, it does appear that he had a brief loss of consciousness, and the vomiting is also a sign of a concussion. The critter should be watched for the next 24hrs, it's okay to let him sleep, but should be awakened every 2hrs to check that it appears normal. For increased walking problems, continued vomiting, disorientation, seizures...emergency vet. Be sure and tell the owners, they will know it was not intentional and appreciate that you were honest with them and have them keep an eye on him.

Posted by: Smuag on 2010-03-09, 20:36:36

The reason that humans go to the hospital after a head injury and suspected concussion is not becuase they can treat it (they can't) but becuase with a head injury comes the risk of a blood clot or aneurism, which the doctor needs to be able to treat immediatley or you could die. The same is true of dogs. He has a head injury and should be monitored overnight for any problems. If you are unsure, call the emergency vet and ask for their professional opinion on whether he should come in.

Posted by: Secret Squirrel on 2010-03-09, 20:36:55

1st you sit on him then throw him against his cage!

Posted by: oregano13 on 2010-03-09, 20:36:56

If this was my dog, I'd be rushing him to the emergency vet- middle of the night or not! Those symptoms would all strongly indicate to me some head trauma, and he should be receiving supportive care and supervision from a professional.

Posted by: marci knows best on 2010-03-09, 21:13:48

Take the puppy to the Emergency Vet. Small breed puppies are very fragile. If he does have a concussion, and dies, how are you going to explain why you didn't take him to the Vet?