How would you identify an arterial bleed?

• A. Thick, dark clots in the blood
• B. Dark red blood oozing from wound
• C. Bright red blood spurting from wound
• D. Clear, pale fluid

Answer: (C)

An arterial bleed is identified by bright red blood that spurts from the wound, in rhythm with the animal’s heartbeat, because arteries are under high pressure. That pulsatile, rapid flow is the strongest clue that the bleed is arterial. The other descriptions don’t fit as well: dark red blood that oozes points to venous bleeding, thick dark clots relate to coagulated blood rather than a continuous arterial flow, and clear, pale fluid isn’t typical blood. If you see bright red spurting, apply firm direct pressure with a clean dressing and seek urgent veterinary care, continuing to apply pressure until help arrives.