Symptoms of Sepsis in Dogs

Sepsis occurs when an underlying infection becomes widespread, causing a whole-body inflammatory state. It is estimated that about 10 percent of critically ill dogs develop sepsis, according to veterinarian Adam Birkenheuer and research assistant professor doctor Shila Nordone in an article for Animal News. Because sepsis may develops in two phases, it's not uncommon to determine the condition's existence by witnessing contrasting symptoms. During the hyperdynamic phase typically seen in the early onset of sepsis, blood flow increases, body temperature rises and the blood vessels dilate. But during the hypodynamic phase typically seen if sepsis is allowed to progress, blood flow decreases, body temperature drops and the blood vessels constrict. Because of the seriousness of this condition, dog owners should report to an experienced veterinarian at the first signs of an infection before it can develop into a life-threatening sepsis.

  1. Abnormal Temperature

    • A dog's normal rectal temperature is between 101 and 102.5 degrees.

      A sudden, elevated fever in a dog with an infection may be the first sign of of sepsis. When the dog̵7;s body gets overwhelmed by bacteria, fungi or viruses, it attempts to fight the presence of such invaders by raising its internal temperature. Because large quantities of invaders do not thrive in warm environments, there are chances the fever may destroy them. However, should the sepsis continue to progress, the dog may progress into the hypodynamic phase. No longer able to cope with the overwhelming infection, the dog's body temperature begins to lower, according to veterinarian Johnny D. Hoskins in an article for DVM360.

    Abnormal Mucous Membranes

    • A healthy dog's gums should be firm and pink.

      Upon detecting invaders in the blood, the immune system activates by releasing molecules known for creating blood flow abnormalities, according to veterinarian Cynthia M. Otto in an article for DVM360. Vasodilation is part of the early hyperdynamic phase, which causes increased blood flow and the onset of bright red mucous membranes. Should sepsis continue to progress, the dog may develop decreased blood flow and pale mucous membranes, which is part of the late hypodynamic phase.

    Abnormal Heart Rate

    • A healthy dog's heart beats 50 times a minute to 130 times a minute.

      With increased blood flow to mucous membranes, important organs may be deprived of adequate oxygen supply. This causes the heart to pump more rapidly during the early stage of sepsis. However, as sepsis progresses, the pulse will become scarcely perceptible, the heart will slow down and the dog's extremities may become cool.

    Abnormal Glucose Levels

    • Serious systemic bacterial infections may lead to low glucose levels in the blood, says veterinarian Debra Primovic in an article for Pet Place. Septic dogs suffering from hypoglycemia often appear to be weakened, depressed and lethargic. Affected dogs may lose interest in food and in normal activities. Seizures may also arise should the glucose levels become too low.

    Abnormal Blood Pressure

    • As sepsis progresses, affected dog may develop very low blood pressure, which may cause the dog to go into septic shock. This may lead to abnormal functioning in multiple organs such as the kidneys, liver and lungs. Unfortunately, mortality rates in dogs are around 50 percent, with higher rates in dogs affected by multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, according to veterinarian Amie Koenig in an article for the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.