Comparison of Trauma in Dogs due to Direct Motor Vehicle Collision or Fall from Open Pick-up Truck Bed during Transportation (2002-2020)

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to report injuries sustained by dogs following motor vehicle trauma: direct motor vehicle collision (MVC), and fall from an open pickup truck bed during transportation (PTB).

Study Design Medical records of dogs involved in motor vehicle trauma between 2002 and 2020 were reviewed. Signalment, mode of injury, injuries sustained, and treatments performed were recorded. An owner questionnaire investigated effects of the trauma on the dog and owner.

Results Six hundred and ninety-eight dogs met the inclusion criteria (569 MVC, 102 PTB). Orthopaedic trauma was significantly more common after PTB (90.2%) (MVC, 75.6%; p = 0.011). There were not any differences in the prevalence of soft tissue injuries between groups (76.4% MVC, 67.6% PTB; p = 0.058), however, MVC dogs had significantly more thoracic (26.9% MVC, 4.4% PTB) and abdominal (12.9% MVC, 0% PTB) trauma (p <0.001). Surgical treatments were performed significantly more often after PTB (71.6%) (MVC, 47.6%) (p <0.001). Discharge rate after PTB (95.0%) was significantly higher (MVC, 84.0%) (p <0.001). Aftercare was reported to be significantly more difficult after PTB (76.2%) (MVC, 34.0%; p = 0.002).

Conclusion MVC and PTB result in significantly different trauma. PTB causes predominantly orthopaedic and integument injuries, whereas MVC results in thoracic and abdominal trauma. Survival to discharge is greater following PTB than MVC.

Keywords

orthopaedic trauma - soft tissue injury - abdominal trauma - motor vehicle trauma - pickup truck bed

Authors' Contributions

Y.U. and S.A.M. contributed to the conception of study and study design. B.R.M.S. and Y.U. contributed to acquisition of data and data analysis. All authors contributed to data interpretation, drafted, revised, and approved the submitted manuscript.

Publication History

Received: 24 January 2022

Accepted: 25 July 2022

Article published online:
28 December 2022

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