Protect dogs from escalator-related paw injuries
Pet guardians are advised by the San Francisco SPCA to keep animals off of escalators or purchase booties.
The San Francisco SPCA is seeing far too many escalator-related injuries at their hospitals. Please spread the word! These are preventable injuries [...]
San Francisco SPCA Warns of Escalator-Related Paw Injuries
The San Francisco SPCA is advising pet guardians to take precautions to prevent their animals from being injured on escalators. The two SF SPCA hospitals, in the Mission and Pacific Heights, regularly receive emergency visits for escalator-related injuries. Dogs' paws can get caught between the moving escalator steps, leading to severe wounds.
"Every month we see far too many escalator-related emergencies," said Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, SF SPCA co-president. "Most of these cases involve small dogs riding escalators at BART stations or shopping malls, but dogs of all sizes are vulnerable. These injuries are very painful and expensive to treat, but the good news is that they're completely preventable."
Dogs who suffer from escalator-related injuries will often lose parts of their toes, and will sometimes need amputation to facilitate healing.
To prevent these injuries, the SF SPCA is advising all pet guardians to carry their dogs on escalators, or use the stairs or elevator.
Alternatively, booties should be used to protect your dog's paws. Dog booties can be purchased online or at most pet supply stores.
If your dog is injured, see a veterinarian immediately. The SF SPCA's Pacific Heights campus is open 24/7 for emergency visits.
To learn more, visit sfspca.org/hospital.