Cross Post - Anaphylactic Shock in Dogs

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

Cross Posted per Karen's request

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.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks for crossposting this here, Jane, it's a good resource. Hugs to you and Stuart.

[Lynne of Fountain Falls]

Funny/ scary story with a happy ending:

I came home one day and my miniature poodle did not meet me at the door.  I started looking for him and found him hiding under the bed.  I got him out and could tell something was bad wrong.  His neck was swollen and he stood very stiffly on all fours.  I called the vet and she told me he had probably been stung by something he was allergic to and did I have any liquid benedryl.  I said no I dont and how urgent is it because I live 15 miles from the nearest drug store.  She said, take the dog with you, go as safely but as quickly as you can and maybe you will make it in time.  Needless to say I grabbed Merlyn, and drove way to fast, beeping my horn at l slow drivers to make them move,   etc.  I made it inrecord time, drove up onto the sidewalk, rushed into the store yelling where is the liquid benedryl my baby is having an allergic reaction!  The Cashier pointed to it and I grabbed it and raced out of the store to my gasping dog.  It had an immediate affect.  As I cradled Merlyn with relief everyone came flooding out of the store saying is your baby ok!!!  I was only after I said, yes, he is going to make it did I realize that they had no idea my baby was a dog. That was 10 years ago and we never go anywhere without his epi-pen.