CANINE TETANUS: THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DIAGNOSIS - CASE REPORT

Abstract

Tetanus is a serious, non-contagious, bacterial infectious disease caused by a highly potent toxin produced by Clostridium tetani. It is most common in herbivores, rare in dogs and cats, and has a high mortality rate if not treated early. This study reports the clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment, and aims to highlight the importance of early diagnosis. This study shows that the main signs are generalized or localized paralysis, muscle spasms, trismus, risus sardonicus, and severe or moderate respiratory distress. The diagnosis was made primarily clinically, and treatment included antibiotics, tetanus antivenom, and fluid therapy. The patient responded well and was well with no sequelae after 30 days of follow-up. This was all due to rapid intervention, which contributed to his prognosis.