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Also known as: '''''Lockjaw

Also known as: '''''Lockjaw

The approach to treatment in the dog is similar to that described for the horse. It is important however to exercise caution in the intravenous administration of equine tetanus antitoxin, as this may cause anaphylaxis if used in dogs. An intradermal test may be performed prior to the administration of the antitoxin in order to prevent this. '''Metronidazole''' and '''amoxicillin-clavulanic acid''' PO have been used successfully to treat tetanus in the dog. Corticosteroids are contraindicated in localised tetanus and may worsen clinical signs if administered.

The approach to treatment in the dog is similar to that described for the horse. It is important however to exercise caution in the intravenous administration of equine tetanus antitoxin, as this may cause anaphylaxis if used in dogs. An intradermal test may be performed prior to the administration of the antitoxin in order to prevent this. '''Metronidazole''' and '''amoxicillin-clavulanic acid''' PO have been used successfully to treat tetanus in the dog. Corticosteroids are contraindicated in localised tetanus and may worsen clinical signs if administered.

Noise and external stimuli should be kept to a minimum, and the dog should be kept in a quiet, darkened kennel. '''Acetylpromazine''' has also been reported to reduce sensitivity to external stimuli and its administration is likely to be beneficial in these cases. Supportive nursing care such as catheterisation and/or enemas may be required, as well as assistance with eating and drinking. Bedding should be thick and changed regularly, and the patient should be turned regularly in order to prevent decubital ulcer formation. Physiotherapy may be benefical during the recovery period.

Noise and external stimuli should be kept to a minimum, and the dog should be kept in a quiet, darkened kennel. '''Acetylpromazine''' has also been reported to reduce sensitivity to external stimuli and its administration is likely to be beneficial in these cases. Supportive nursing care such as catheterisation and/or enemas may be required, as well as assistance with eating and drinking. Bedding should be thick and changed regularly, and the patient should be turned regularly in order to prevent decubital ulcer formation. Physiotherapy may be beneficial during the recovery period.

==Prognosis==

==Prognosis==

Localised tetanus carries a more favourable prognosis with a 90% survival rate. The prognosis associated with generalised tetanus is poorer, with a survival rate of 50%.  

Localised tetanus carries a more favourable prognosis with a 90% survival rate. The prognosis associated with generalised tetanus is poorer, with a survival rate of 50%.  

==References==

==References==

* Merck & Co (2008) '''The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition)''' ''Merial''

* Merck & Co (2008) '''The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition)''' ''Merial''

[[Category:Expert Review]]

[[Category:Expert Review]]

[[Category:Dog]]

[[Category:Neurological Diseases - Dog]]

[[Category:Other Oral Conditions]]