TL;DR: A fall down the stairs is a high-urgency event that can cause life-threatening internal injuries or fractures even if symptoms aren't immediately visible. Seek immediate emergency care if your dog cannot stand, has difficulty breathing, or appears disoriented.
What injuries can occur if my dog falls down the stairs?
A fall down the stairs is a traumatic event that can result in a variety of injuries. Because dogs are resilient and often mask their pain, you should watch for:
- Bone fractures or joint luxations
- Spinal cord compression
- Internal organ trauma or internal bleeding
- Minor to severe soft tissue bruising
Is it a veterinary emergency if my dog falls down the stairs?
Yes, any significant fall should be treated as a high-urgency situation. You should seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your dog exhibits any of the following:
- Inability to stand or walk
- Labored or heavy breathing
- Pale gums
- Signs of disorientation or head trauma
- Vocalizing in pain
Even if they appear normal, a professional evaluation is recommended to rule out hidden complications that are not visible to the naked eye.
How can photos or videos help the vet triage my dog after a fall?
Providing your veterinarian with visual evidence can be incredibly helpful for the triage process. Visual documentation helps the medical team prepare by:
- Showing the exact nature and location of visible wounds
- Identifying neurological deficits, such as knuckling of the paws or uneven pupils
- Showing gait abnormalities or mobility issues via video
- Allowing the clinic to prioritize your dog's care and prepare necessary equipment before you arrive
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In cases where a dog has fallen down stairs, emergency triage should begin with the owner's initial telephone call, providing instructions on first aid and transport. Upon arrival, rapid assessment of airway, breathing, and circulation is critical. The level of consciousness and pain should be evaluated, noting stupor, coma, seizures, vocalization, behavioral changes, or physical changes such as tachycardia and dilated pupils. Historical or observed problems such as known or suspected trauma and acute inability to walk warrant immediate transfer to the treatment area, regardless of initial physical findings.
Chapter: Emergency, General Principles
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1659)