Which statement best describes how to transport an animal with a suspected spinal injury?

• A. Move the animal without support to prepare it for transport.
• B. Remove all restraints to allow comfortable movement.
• C. Use a rigid support, immobilize, and minimize movement during transport.
• D. Lay the animal on its side in the back seat without padding.

Answer: (C)

When a spinal injury is suspected, any movement can worsen damage to the spinal cord. The safest way to transport is on a rigid support with the animal immobilized and movement minimized. Place the animal on a firm board or stretcher, keep the head, neck, and spine in a straight line, and secure them with padded restraints so they can’t roll or twist. Use padding to protect bony points, but avoid bending or twisting the spine during loading and transport. Keep handling calm and minimize movement until veterinary care is reached. Moving without support, removing restraints, or laying the animal on its side without proper alignment or padding can all worsen injury and should be avoided.