Pitbull puppy bitten by adult Blue Heeler - concussion?

by Rachel Neal
(Magnolia, Arkansas)

My 5 week old Pitbull puppy has been attacked by an adult Blue Heeler.

She has a hole on one side and her right ear is ripped. We took her to the vet to get examined. He said nothing he can really do, except rest, warm, antibiotics, and time.

He also said she has a concussion because she couldn't walk and looked drunk. My question...

How did all of that cause a concussion? And is there anything i can do?







Hi Rachel
I'm glad that your puppy has been fully examined by a vet and given the necessary treatment. Unfortunately so many people try to treat injuries and illnesses themselves at home without professional advice and that can lead to tragedy.

From what you describe it sounds as though this puppy was pretty severely hurt, but that she will likely make a full recovery. That is really good news!

The concussion would be caused by the brain being 'bounced around' inside her head. This could happen if the bigger dog shook her hard (which it probably did), dropped her, or threw her around. It is a serious issue, but as she's been evaluated and allowed home it probably hasn't caused any permanent damage and the concussion itself will improve within a few days.

She'll need lots of rest and quiet, the medications she's been prescribed, and as much food and water as she wants. She's been through a trauma and needs time for her little body to get over it.

The best thing you can do other than makes sure she gets all of the above is to give her lots of love and care. Feeling secure and safe will help her to recover more quickly.

Also, as far as the concussion goes.. if she seems to get worse rather than better, if she starts to vomit or show any signs of seizures or more severe disorientation you will need to get her back to your veterinarian right away to make sure that no other treatment is needed.

I wish you lots of luck and hope this poor little girl makes a full, and speedy, recovery.