anaphylactic shock (allergic reaction)

Take your dog immediately to the vet if he shows any signs of anaphylaxis such as:

* possible facial swelling (angioedema)

* breathing difficulty

* pale gums and cold limbs

* shock

* vomiting and/or sudden onset of diarrhoea

* seizures

Anaphylactic shock occurs when a dog has been previously exposed to a certain allergen to which he becomes sensitive to, any subsequent exposure to that allergen can result in anaphylactic shock,the most common drug to cause anaphylaxis is penicillin,a dog can develop a hypersensitivity to virtually any ingested, injected or environmental substance. However, most commonly only mild reactions are seen involving food allergy such as dermatitis, the dog may scratch and bite or lick his paws excessively leading to secondary infection.

In cases, such as those that are allergic to certain vaccinations, wasp or bee stings etc, there may initially be redness or swelling,pain and itching at the site of contact, this can progress almost immediately to uncontrollable diarrhoea, vomiting and urination, rapid,weak or irregular heartbeat,weakness,depression,facial swelling, circulatory collapse. A drop in blood pressure shows clinical signs such as pale gums,rapid and difficult breathing. The dog may also appear frightened, uncoordinated and restless.Stridor ( loud/harsh breathing sounds) may be heard due to swelling of the larynx, left untreated these pets are likely to die due to suffocation. Some dogs develop a fever whilst others have a low body temperature. shock, coma,seizures and death can result.

Following the first exposure introducing the dog to the allergy any subsequent exposure usually results in a more severe reaction, and the sooner it appears after being exposed the more likely it is that the dog will experience a more severe reaction. Once an allergy has been determined the dog should not be given that particular vaccine or drug etc again

Treatment

Treatment usually includes epinephrine, this is sometimes called “adrenaline” it is useful in contracting blood vessels which returns blood pressure to normal levels and may also be of some aid to those that are suffering swelling of the larynx. Oxygen may be given as needed as well as IV fluids and antihistamines, dogs are usually hospitalized for approx 24-48 hours following a severe reaction.