Emergency first aid for pets -- non pet-owner asking

[Anonymous]

I was driving DS on some errands this morning, on a nice residential street, when my heart just about stopped. This gorgeous, friendly-looking laborador retriever came bounding out into the road in front of my car! I slammed on my brakes and just avoided hitting him while his frantic owner screamed from the side of the road. (In retrospect, I think the dog had gotten away from its yard and the owner had been chasing it). I was really freaked out, but even more so later when I realized that I wouldn't have had a good idea of how to help if I actually _had_ run that poor dog over. For those on DCUM who might know, can you answer a few questions for me?

1) Does the same rule apply for dogs as humans about not moving them until help appears?
2) If so, how do you get help? I'm serious -- I am drawing a blank. It seems unlikely that 911 would refer you to a pet ambulance, but 411 would likely be far too slow in a really dangerous situation. Is there such a thing as Dog or Cat 911 under a different number, for emergency situations? Perhaps a veterinary urgent care center that people would want to recommend?

Clearly I am not a pet owner. But I would have felt horrible if I had seriously injured that poor animal and I didn't know how to help. Any thoughts would be welcome.

[Anonymous]

My SIL saw a cat get hit and brought it to the nearest animal hospital. That's what I would do, if I were able to carefully move the animal. I am not aware of any pet ambulances - and I wouldn't count on animal control being able to get there in a reasonable amount of time while the animal suffered.

If you hit a deer or wild animal, then the cop will likely shoot it. Most wild animals (unlike people) will suffer from shock and die pretty quickly.

[Anonymous]

Agree with PP to take it to the nearest animal hospital. But maybe tie its mouth shut if it is a dog because it will be in a lot of pain and may bite you.

[Anonymous]

There are emergency vets all around the DC area open 24/7. I was there last week with my dog and will be going tomorrow again. Some are vets that function as ER's at night but I do not think you can call them to get the animal. You have to bring them in.

[Anonymous]

I've actually called 911 about a dog on the lose on 295. They forwarded my call to Animal Rescue.