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My puppy has a broken rib and punctured lung. Is home recovery safe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | 2 months and 15 days old | 5 lbs

My daschund puppy has a broken rib that caused a puncture in his lung. He couldn't stand up and we took him to the vet about 30 minutes after the accident. He was yelling and wouldn't let anyone pick him up. He was weezing and his gums were blue. There was also an air pocket that felt like rice. Vet can't do anything but let it heal and the puppy has stayed for two nights at the office. Is there any chance that if he comes home he could make another hole in the same lung vise versa or die??

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 20th, 2019

The rib should hopefully heal over the next number of weeks, and prevent it from puncturing Maverick's lung again. You will likely have to be very careful with him while this is healing, and probably will cage rest him for weeks. The vet can let you know the treatment protocol, but I hope that he heals up!

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