Tetanus: What You Need To Know About The Potentially Life

Tetanus is a potentially life-threatening infection that dogs can contract through open wounds. This soil-borne bacterial disease causes muscle stiffness and death if left untreated. It is important for dog owners to be aware of the causes, treatments, and prevention of tetanus. Tetanus is most often identified by muscle stiffness. It can also cause problems with other muscles in the face, neck, legs, and other parts of the body. Symptoms include curl of the lips, difficulty walking, stiff legs, weakness, and even difficulty breathing. Some dogs with tetanus look like they are trying to grow a new leaf. This can happen when a dog has an open wound that gets infected. The resulting toxin, called tetanospasmin, enters the nerves surrounding the wound. The toxin continues to spread throughout the nervous system, including the spinal cord and the brain. Tet infections should not become severe if they are treated right away. If left untreated, muscle rigidity will progress. It will likely affect the dog's entire body. Depending on the severity of the infection, IV fluids and other supportive care may be needed. Most of the time, dogs diagnosed with Tetanus will receive antibiotics to kill off the C. tetanus infection rates are up to 90 percent in dogs if the disease is treated promptly. Dogs that do not receive prompt treatment are more likely to die from the illness. You can prevent the unlikely chance that your dog will get tetanus by thoroughly cleaning any wounds. .