E. Coli in a Canine

E. Coli, also known formally as Escherichia coli, is a bacterial infection in the lower intestine. This infection can harm humans and other mammals. Dogs, primarily puppies, can succumb to the negative side effects of an E. coli infection if not treated properly. The term for an infection stemming from E. coli is colibacillosis. It requires medical attention by a veterinarian as soon as symptoms are discovered.

  1. Transmission and Puppies

    • The E. coli bacterium resides in warmblooded mammals. The small amount of bacteria in the small intestine is common and usually does not pose a health risk for dogs. By the time a female who has E. coli bacteria in her bloodstream gives birth, the newborn puppies might have contracted the bacteria in utero. The newborns receive antibodies through nursing. But in puppies that do not nurse properly, E. coli can spread and endanger their health.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • The signs and symptoms associated with an E. coli infection in dogs is similar to those of an intestinal outbreak in humans. Have your puppy or dog assessed by a veterinarian if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, dehydration or general malaise. Even if the dog does not have diarrhea, you should get it medical attention if watery stools develop in conjunction with other symptoms.

    Treatment

    • Treating a dog or puppy for an E. coli infection involves medical treatment prescribed by a veterinarian. You should not attempt to treat the dog on your own. Untreated E. coli can result in the dog's death because of heart conditions associated with prolonged dehydration, palpitations and lack of nutrients as the bacterial infection progresses.

      The typical course of treatment for a dog diagnosed with E. coli includes inpatient treatment supported by intravenous fluids, antibiotics and continual assessment of the dog.

    Prevention

    • The prevention of E. coli is best achieved through keeping a clean and safe living environment for dogs. Avoid feeding them raw meat, which could contain E. coli bacteria. For pregnant dogs, it is essential to provide a sterile and clean birthing environment. Make sure to get newborn puppies to drink as much as possible of the colostrum, the first milk produced by the mother, so that they build up a strong immune system. Each puppy will nurse at an individual pace, but encouraging newborns to nurse immediately will help ensure that the most colostrum is ingested.