Foodborne Dog Illness Symptoms: A Short Diagnostic Guide

Foodborne dog illness symptoms can mean your dog has contracted botulism, salmonella infection, or e. coli infection. Here's a guide to the symptoms of these common foodborne dog illnesses.

Botulism

Botulism is a rare but serious foodborne illness caused by the bacteria clostridium botulinum. Symptoms of botulism illness in dogs include:

* Generalized weakness * Paralysis that spreads from the hind to the front limbs * Labored breathing * Facial paralysis * Difficulty swallowing

Botulism symptoms in dogs appear 12-36 hours after exposure and, if untreated, can lead to respiratory failure and death.

Salmonella Poisoning

Symptoms of salmonella poisoning occur about 72 hours after exposure. They include:

* Vomiting (sometimes bloody) * Diarrhea (also sometimes bloody) * Fever * Lack of appetite * Gurgling sounds in the abdomen * Lethargy * Severe dehydration * Drooling or panting

Some dogs may experience joint pain and stiffness, redness and swelling of the eyes, and frequent urination.

E. Coli Infection

E. coli bacteria exist naturally in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals. When dogs ingest e. coli, they can display symptoms of serious illness including:

* Bloody diarrhea ranging from bloody to severe * Loss of appetite * Lethargy * Fever * Vomiting

 

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