Tetanus is a highly lethal disease caused by a bacterium named Clostridium tetani, which affects the nervous system of all animals. It’s rare in dogs because they are very immune to toxins. Those affected are usually puppies or dogs of any age that have been wounded around the mouth.
There are several ways that the bacteria will sneak into the dog’s body:
- puncture wounds, such as those caused by splinters, claws, or insect bites
- Fire
- cracks in the skin
- Spots where needles have been injected
Symptoms
The inability to move the jaw (hence the colloquial term ‘lockjaw’) is not the only symptom in canines with tetanus. Other signs include fever, prolonged salivation, respiratory problems, constipation, stiffening of the body, erection of the ear and tail, abnormal posture, paralysis and spasms. Affected dogs may die without treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if your dog has a puncture or a dirty wound, get him to the vet as early as possible.
Diagnosing
Tetanus is usually diagnosed solely on the basis of symptoms that the dog is experiencing. The wound is not always present; as it can take up to ten days after Clostridium tetani reaches the wound to cause symptoms. A wound may heal before symptoms are detected, or it may be so small that it is not found.
The blood test is also performed to look for the presence of C. Tetani bacteria, but most vets do not use it because it is not an effective or reliable test. Other pet diagnostics, including blood work and x-rays, can also be done to ensure that your dog is healthy.
Treatment
Treatment requires high doses of antibiotics and anti-toxin tetanus. Severely affected dogs will also need IV fluids and nutritional assistance as they will not be able to open their mouths through muscle contraction. There is no vaccine available for dogs simply because it is such a rare illness. Cats can also be affected by tetanus, although they are rarely seen as much more resistant.
Immediate cleaning of all wounds with diluted hydrogen peroxide destroys C. Tetanus spores and helps avoid tetanus from developing.