Anaphylactic shock in dogs

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

As you may guess, after Stuart's episode with anaphylactic shock I'been doing a lot of research in order to better understand the signs and causes.  It would be wonderful if all of us dog owners would know the symptoms and what you need to do if you suspect your dog is going into anaphylaxis.  This could happen to any dog without warning - Stuart has been through hell and back but will make a full recovery.  We will be getting that Epi Pen tomorrow so that will help give me some peace of mind.  So many thanks to all of you for your help and support during a super stressful time for me!  I so appreciate all of you!!!

*************From PetWave

Anaphylactic shock, also called anaphylaxis, is an acute, systemic and extremely serious allergic reaction that, if not treated quickly, can cause rapid cardiovascular decompensation, respiratory distress and death. The symptoms and consequences of anaphylactic shock in dogs differ from those in other mammals. However, anaphylaxis is every bit as much of a life-threatening medical emergency in dogs as it is in people.

 

Symptoms of Anaphylactic Shock in Dogs

Anaphylactic reactions occur almost immediately – usually within moments after a dog touches, inhales, ingests or otherwise is exposed to the inciting allergen. The first signs of anaphylactic shock in dogs usually include very rapid onset of one or more of the following:

Diarrhea Defecation Urination

Vomiting Itchiness (pruritis) Development of hives (urticaria)

These symptoms quickly progress to one or more of the following:

Weakness Lethargy Drooling (hypersalivation) Shallow, rapid and difficult breathing (respiratory distress; dyspnea) Pale gums and other mucous membranes

Elevated heart rate (tachycardia) Weak pulses Cold limbs Changes in mental clarity (excitement or depression)

Left untreated, the end result of anaphylactic shock almost always is seizures, collapse, coma and death. Dogs suffering anaphylactic episodes normally do not have severe or obvious swelling around their throat or face, unless the allergen came into contact with the dog in that area. Dogs having hypersensitivity reactions to allergens such as bee stings, vaccines or other pharmaceutical injections may develop mild to moderate swelling or bruising around the entry site. If any or even some of these signs appear suddenly in your dog, take him or her to a veterinarian right away. Anaphylactic shock is almost always fatal if not treated immediately.

[Carol and Banjo]

Thanks for posting this Jane.   I'm so happy that Stuart will be fine after this horrible and frightening episode.  

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

LOL - wait till I have to explain to the dog sitter or daycare people that they have to have the Epi handy, that should be interesting. 

[Rachel and Ollie]

This is really helpful Jane. I think this is what happens with vaccines with Ollie. 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks for posting this, Jane, it may help someone else. Could you please also post it in the Health and Medical Group, too?

I'm so glad Stuart is feeling better.  

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Really good to know. I would have never imagined.  Thank you, Jane.  Too bad you had to go through this with Stuart.  I wonder if the past shakes he had were a precursor t this experience?

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

Joanne - HE DID!!!  He was stung once when he was about 4 months old - on the lip.  That was the first exposure.  He had no reaction that first time - none other than a puffy little lip.  This is just what my research says - it is usually the 2nd exposure that causes the a.s.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Which is exactly like less acute allergic reactions, the symptoms do not occur on the first exposure. Can't have an allergy to something until you've been exposed to it at least once and have developed antibodies to it.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Absolutely true but really there is an allergy the first time. It's just that the antibody producing cells have to get geared up, make the antibodies and be primed so to speak. That all takes time.So the impressive reaction comes after that when the defenses are ready to be deployed quickly. Sometimes, not always, the defense is a very bad thing.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Thanks and it's is the same and good to know about for people as well.

[Jarka, Monty & Auggie]

I'm so sorry that you have to be dealing with this, Jane. I had an anaphylactic episode two summer ago and my DH had to use an EpiPen on me. The scariest thing ever considering I only ate a hamburger bun. I'm wheat intolerant, but had my wisdom teeth removed few days before the episode and was on Motrin as well. Normally, I "just" get nasty hives if I eat wheat, but this was the worst allergy reaction I've had. Ever since then, I'm avoiding wheat like hell. And ever since then Monty has abandoned his crate downstairs. It was very interesting to see a 5 month old dog (at that time) being so concerned about my health. He just did not want to leave my side so we had to overnight a bed for him to put in our bedroom. I totally understand the discomfort poor little Stu is feeling. I would not wish it upon anyone, let alone a doodle. Hope he does not have to experience this EVER again.

[Ronna, Murphy & Wilson]

Thank you for posting Jane.  very Scary.  Hugs to Stuart.

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

I had an episode as well several years ago and have no idea what it was that caused it as I and only eaten things that I had eaten at this restaurant before.  Dr. said that we would probably never know what caused it as it could have been a case of the cook touched some other food and then touched my food.  Has only ever happened that one time.  Is a little unsettling not knowing.  I carried an epi for a few years afterwards but have sense stopped.