High-rise syndrome in dogs: 81 cases (1985-1991)

We evaluated 81 dogs with high-rise syndrome. Dogs fell from 1 to 6 stories, and of 52 dogs for which the fall was witnessed, 39 had (75%) jumped. Dogs sustained a triad of injuries to the face, thorax, and extremities, similar to injuries seen in cats with high-rise syndrome, but with differences in degree and distribution. Height fallen and landing surface affected initial status and type and severity of injury. Cause of fall influenced distribution of extremity injury. Dogs falling < 3 stories had a high prevalence of extremity fractures. Higher falls resulted in more spinal injuries. We recommend initial treatment for shock and thoracic trauma followed by orthopedic and neurologic evaluation. Visceral trauma should be considered if response to emergency treatment is poor. All but 1 of the dogs survived.