Tetanus in Dogs
Tetanus is a rare but serious bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani.
What Is Tetanus?
This bacterium produces a neurotoxin called tetanospasmin, which affects the nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness, spasms, and paralysis. While dogs are more resistant to tetanus than humans and horses, they can still develop the disease, especially through deep wounds or contaminated injuries.
Signs of Tetanus in Dogs
Tetanus symptoms often appear 5–10 days after infection and may include:
🐾 Stiffness and muscle rigidity (starting in the face and progressing to the limbs)
🐾 Difficulty walking
🐾 Facial paralysis or "grinning" appearance (lips pulled back, ears erect)
🐾 Lockjaw (difficulty opening the mouth)
🐾 Spasms triggered by touch or noise
🐾 Excessive drooling
🐾 Difficulty eating or drinking
If your dog shows any of these signs, a vet check-up is recommended to allow for treatment and prevent further complications.
How Do Dogs Get Tetanus?
Tetanus occurs when Clostridium tetani bacteria enter the body through a wound. Common sources include:
🐾 Deep puncture wounds (e.g., bites, nails, thorns)
🐾 Surgical wounds or poorly healed incisions
🐾 Infected umbilical stumps in newborn puppies
🐾 Exposure to contaminated soil, manure, or rusty objects
When to See a Vet
Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if your dog shows stiffness, spasms, or difficulty moving, especially if there is a history of recent wounds or injuries.
How My Corner Vet Can Help
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:
Tetanus Antitoxin
May be administered in some cases to neutralise circulating toxins.
Wound Care & Infection Control
Cleaning and managing any wounds to prevent further bacterial spread.
Supportive Care
Includes IV fluids, nutritional support, and nursing care if the dog cannot eat or drink properly.
Muscle Relaxants & Sedation
To ease stiffness and prevent painful spasms.
Oxygen Therapy & Ventilation
In severe cases where breathing is affected.
Antibiotic Therapy
Clostridium tetani is treated with antibiotics to stop bacterial growth.
How to Prevent Tetanus in Dogs
You can reduce the risk by:
🐾 Wound Care – Clean and disinfect any cuts, punctures, or injuries promptly.
🐾 Keep Environment Safe – Remove sharp objects and debris from your dog’s surroundings.
🐾 Monitor Injuries – If your dog sustains a deep wound, seek veterinary care, as some wounds may be high-risk for tetanus.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No, there is no routine tetanus vaccine for dogs. Unlike humans and horses, dogs have a higher natural resistance to tetanus.
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No, tetanus is not contagious. It develops when Clostridium tetani bacteria enter a wound, not through direct contact with an infected animal.
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Recovery depends on severity. Mild cases may improve within a few weeks, while severe cases can take months with intensive care. Some dogs may not survive if respiratory muscles are affected.
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Yes. Stiffness and muscle rigidity can resemble neurological diseases, poisoning (e.g., strychnine toxicity), or meningitis. A veterinary exam is needed to confirm tetanus.
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Not necessarily, but it’s always best to clean wounds immediately and seek veterinary attention.
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