How Do I Treat My Dog’s Salmonella?
The good news is, mild salmonella can usually be treated at home. The main focus with treatment is to support the dog’s natural recovery. This entails keeping an eye out for dehydration and ensuring they get enough fluids and nutrients in their body. In some cases, the vet will also prescribe antibiotics to help fight the bacteria or prevent shock.
However, if the case is more severe, your dog may need to be hospitalized. If your dog is unable to keep any fluids down, they may be administered via IV. There is also a possibility of your dog developing a blood infection or sepsis and that may require a blood transfusion.
If your dog has not developed sepsis, they have a very good chance of full recovery. Your dog will gradually build their strength back up, but it may takes weeks to fully shake all of the salmonella bacteria. To aide in swift recovery, hygiene is important. Washing your hands, cleaning bowls they eat and drink out of, and not letting them lick your face, will all help to limit the spread of the bacteria.
It can often help to hear first hand accounts from other owners about the more serious symptoms , plus see frequently asked questions answered by our in-house vets.
What are the symptoms of salmonella in dogs?
“When dogs develop salmonellosis, it will generally present with diarrhea that may contain blood or mucus. Your dog may seem more tired than usual, lethargic and may have a fever or vomit. Other symptoms to look out for include dehydration, loss of appetite and a decrease in activity.”
How to Treat Salmonella in Dogs
The treatment of salmonella depends on the dog’s clinical signs. Antibiotics may be used in severe cases or in dogs with a weakened immune system, but they are typically avoided in mild or asymptomatic cases. In mild or asymptomatic cases, the use of antibiotics may actually prolong bacterial shedding while contributing to the development of resistant infections.
If your dog does require antibiotics, your veterinarian may perform a bacterial culture to determine the most appropriate antibiotic to use. There are many antibiotics that can be used to treat salmonella, but some strains are antibiotic resistant and require specific antibiotics.
Your veterinarian may also recommend symptomatic treatments to alleviate the clinical signs associated with salmonellosis. Severely dehydrated dogs may be hospitalized for intravenous (IV) fluids, while dogs that are mildly dehydrated may receive fluid under the skin (subcutaneously) on an outpatient basis. Your veterinarian may also prescribe an anti-nausea drug and a bland diet.
Salmonella In Dogs
Salmonella infection, or salmonellosis, is a condition in dogs caused by salmonella bacteria. It usually results in symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, but it can lead to more serious conditions.
Though the bacteria is common, it’s unusual for it to cause disease in healthy canines. It can, however, spread between species, including humans, other pets, and even reptiles and birds.
The bacteria can be found in raw or undercooked meat, contaminated pet food, or saliva and feces from another infected animal.
If you see the signs of salmonella infection in your dog, consult your veterinarian right away. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for salmonellosis in dogs.