Canine Tetanus: An Insight by JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM, Reviewed by Brittany Kleszynski, DVM (Published on 03/28/2023)
Taking a Stroll Through Canine Tetanus: An Uncommon but Deadly Encounter
Let's talk about a health issue many forget about when it comes to our furry friends - tetanus, or lockjaw. While not common in dogs, it can be a life-threatening issue if not caught and treated early. So, let's dive into the basics of canine tetanus, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
So, What's the Deal with Tetanus in Dogs?
Tetanus is a bacterial infection that targets the nervous system, caused by a bacterium called Clostridium tetani. This bacterium dwells in soil and can be found in an animal's intestinal tract, living well in low-oxygen environments.
It enters the dog's body through a puncture wound, multiplying and releasing a neurotoxin called tetanospasmin when cells in the wound start to die. The toxin then latches onto nerve cells controlling voluntary movement, blocking the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters and causing muscles to involuntarily spasm and contract. This can be particularly dangerous when it affects the respiratory muscles, leading to an inability to breathe.
Unlike in humans, tetanus shots aren't routinely given to dogs, as they are less susceptible to the disease. Since the tetanus shots don't last a lifetime, adults may need booster shots for protection.
Can My Dog Catch Tetanus?
Although it's not very common, dogs can still get tetanus. There are two types: localized and generalized. Localized tetanus causes symptoms at the wound site, while generalized tetanus affects the entire nervous system, traveling from the wound to the brain and spinal cord. In most cases, localized tetanus is the more likely form, but it can progress to the generalized variety.
How Does My Dog Get Tetanus?
Dogs get tetanus the same way humans do - C. tetani enters the body through a puncture wound. It's important to note that the wound doesn't always have to be big for tetanus to occur; even a small puncture wound can allow entry of the bacterium. Dogs of any age can technically get tetanus, but it's more likely to affect young, large-breed dogs.
What Are the Warning Signs of Tetanus in Dogs?
Tetanus symptoms in dogs are due to tetanospasmin's effects on nerve cells, leading to involuntary muscle contractions and spasms. The incubation period, or time until symptoms appear, for tetanus in dogs is typically around 5 to 10 days but can range from 3 days to several weeks.
Symptoms of both localized and generalized tetanus in dogs include:
Localized Tetanus
- Muscle stiffness near the wound
- Muscle tremors near the wound
Generalized Tetanus
- Lockjaw
- Erect ears
- Wrinkled forehead
- Inability to swallow
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty breathing
- Stiff head and neck
- Mouth partially open
- Elevated third eyelids
- Stiff and extended tail
- Curled lips ('sinister smile')
- Difficulty walking or turning around
- Fever due to heat from constant muscle contraction
In severe cases, the muscle spasms could lead to bone fractures.
How Do Vets Diagnose Tetanus in Dogs?
To diagnose tetanus in dogs, vets base their decision on symptoms. Ideally, the wound can be identified, but it's unlikely to still be present by the time symptoms appear. Tests to identify C. tetani can be unreliable, so they're not usually performed for diagnosis. However, a veterinarian may perform diagnostic tests to assess the dog's overall health.
What's the Game Plan for Treating Tetanus in Dogs?
The earlier treatment is started, the better chance a dog has for a full recovery. The focus is on treating the wound as soon as possible, via debridement (removing all dead tissue) and cleaning. Following that, a round of antibiotics, typically penicillin, is prescribed.
Alongside wound care, additional medications are used to relax the muscles and control spasms, and bright lights or loud noises should be avoided to prevent triggering more muscle spasms. In severe cases, a dog may require a feeding tube, respiratory support, intravenous fluid therapy, and soft bedding for pressure relief.
How Much Does It Cost to Treat Tetanus in Dogs?
Treatment costs vary based on the severity of the tetanus. Localized tetanus treatment expenses are lower since the dog may not need hospitalization or intense care. Generalized tetanus is significantly more expensive, considering the expenses for intensive supportive care, medications, and hospitalization.
Preventing Tetanus in Dogs: Keeping Wounds Clean
Although humans receive tetanus vaccinations, dogs are not routinely vaccinated. Instead, focusing on preventing exposure to tetanus spores in soil is the key. This includes keeping wounds clean, being cautious with activities that might result in puncture wounds, and administering antibiotics if a wound is suspected to be contaminated. By sticking to these precautions, you can significantly decrease the possibility of your dog contracting tetanus.
In the context of science and health-and-wellness, understanding medical-conditions like tetanus is essential, especially when considering our pets. While tetanus shielding vaccinations are not routine in dogs, they can still contract the disease from a puncture wound, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cleanliness and proper wound care to prevent exposure to tetanus spores and the risk of medical-conditions, such as tetanus, in dogs.
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