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.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Jane, thanks so much for sharing this information.  I'm so sorry that you and Stuart had to go through all this.  How much time do you get with the EPI Pen before he would have to be seen by the Vet or Emergency Clinic?  I would think that you might have to avoid hiking with him in places that are somewhat remote.  I don't believe either of my guys have ever been stung, but thanks to your information I'll know what symptoms to be looking for.

[Holly Paterniti]

Thank you for the information :-) When I had a poodle he went into anaphylaxis shock after receiving his DHLP vaccination. It is scary. It is important all of know what the symptom. It does come on all of a sudden. I am so glad Stuart is better :-)

[Lisa, Daisy & Dexter]

Thanks for this most important information. So glad Stewart is doing better and will get through this (he is lucky he has such a wonderful doodle mom).

Enjoy the rest of your time in MI and hopefully away from anymore harm.

[Leslie and Halas]

I missed this story about Stuart!  I'm glad to hear he's going to be OK.  Thanks for sharing this information.

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Thank you for sharing. I am so happy Stuart is better; what a traumatic past few days you have had!  HUGS!!!!

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

Just back from the vet and pharmacy.  Stuart's heart rate is back to normal - yippee and we got his Epi.  He is on an

EpiPen Jr.  0.15 mg Epinephrine    So relieved to have this on hand but I gotta admit - that the darn thing is way bigger than I thought it would be, not exactly pocket sized but it does fit into my little over the shoulder bag that I carry my phone and poop bags in.  Maybe I'll get Dori to make me something cute to carry it in. 

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

That's great news that Stuart's heart rate is back to normal.   The pen is probably the same as the human ones, quite a big green thing!  Hopefully it will go out of date and remain unused, just watch out for the expiry date!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

So glad to hear that Stuart's heart rate is back to normal. I hope you never have to use the Epi Pen!

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

Boy oh boy -- That must have been so terrifying.  I'm so glad that he's on the mend, Jane, and that you are now equipped should it happen again.  There's always something . . .  Your boys are so lucky to have you to take care of them.

[Pam & Trixie]

I too missed your original post.  Im so glad Stuart is ok!

Do you know what caused his Anaphylactic shock?

I will go look for your original post...