Attention dog owners: Deadly danger in spring

With spring come warmer temperatures and blooming landscapes, but at the same time, an often underestimated danger for dogs increases: botulism. This serious poisoning is caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum caused and can be life-threatening. Especially dangerous is contact with freshly fertilized fields and contaminated water sources.

Transmission routes: How dogs can become infected with botulism

Dogs can come into contact with Come into contact with botulism bacteria:

• Rolling on freshly fertilized fields – The bacteria can get into the fur and be ingested through licking.

• Drinking from contaminated water sources – Standing bodies of water or puddles in agricultural areas pose an increased risk.

• Contact with animal carcasses – Dead animals can be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum be contaminated.

• Small wounds on the paws – Open injuries can be an entry point for Botulism bacteria can be present when the dog walks over contaminated soil.

Symptoms of an infection: Early detection is crucial

The signs of a botulism infection are often overlooked or mistaken for other poisonings. The following symptoms are particularly common:

• Lameness of the hind legs – An unsteady gait or weakness in the hind limbs can be an early warning sign.

• Progressive paralysis – The muscle paralysis increasingly spreads throughout the entire body.

• Excessive salivation and swallowing difficulties – Dogs with Dogs with botulism have difficulty taking in food and water.

• Respiratory paralysis – In advanced stages, life-threatening respiratory paralysis can occur.

Preventive measures: How to protect your dog from Botulism

To reduce the risk of To minimize the risk of botulism infection, dog owners should observe some important precautions:

• Avoid freshly fertilized fields – Especially in rural areas, this can pose a high infection risk for Botulism.

• Clean and disinfect paws after walks – This can significantly reduce the risk of contamination.

• Do not allow drinking from unknown water sources – Contaminated water can be a potential source of infection for Botulism.

• Avoid contact with carcasses – This applies both to eating and sniffing dead animals.

The right diagnosis can save lives

Since the symptoms of botulism are often mistaken for poisoning by bait toxins, it is essential that both veterinarians and dog owners are informed about this disease. Early and targeted diagnosis can significantly increase the survival chances of the affected animal.

Knowledge about this danger and taking preventive measures can make a crucial contribution to protecting our dogs. Conscious handling of potential sources of infection helps to avoid severe disease courses.