Dog Lick sepsis treatment: Check signs, unusual symptoms, when should you see a doctor, how to prevent infection and more

A 56-year-old Indian origin woman in the United Kingdom lost all her limbs and suffered several cardiac arrests after a lick from her dog caused sepsis on a small cut or scratch. The rare yet devastating case has raised serious concerns and has opened a floodgate for debates about infection risks from everyday contact with our paw friends. Manjit Sangha's story is a stark reminder that even small infections can make the body turn against itself.

Dog lick sepsis treatment

A dog lick can cause sepsis in rare cases and it is a life-threatening condition. Though majority of interactions with pets are considered safe, dog saliva carries bacteria that may lead to serious infection in certain individuals. Dog lick sepsis happens when the body responds aggressively to an infection and it not treated on time, sepsis can lead to organ failure or even death.

Whenever dog lick sepsis happens, doctors evaluate and examine the symptoms, medical history and the affected area of the patient. Blood tests may be performed to check for infection or sepsis, according to a report in Continental Hospital.


Treatment may include:

Antibiotics
Intravenous fluids
Monitoring blood pressure
Intensive care in severe cases

Symptoms of dog lick sepsis

Some of the signs that indicate that dog lick sepsis may be spreading include:

Fever
Chills
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion
Low blood pressure
Extreme weakness

ALSO READ: Pet dog's lick turns deadly: Woman loses both hands, legs, suffers multiple heart attacks in less than 24 hours

Warning signs after Dog lick sepsis

If you notice any unusual symptoms after a dog lick, do not ignore them. Early signs of infection may include:

Redness or swelling at the site
Pain around the wound
Warmth around the skin
Pus or discharge

How to Prevent Infection From a Dog Lick?

Prevention is simple and practical. Follow these safety measures:

• Avoid letting dogs lick open wounds
• Wash hands after contact with dog saliva
• Clean any licked area with soap and water
• Cover cuts and scratches properly
• Keep your pet vaccinated and healthy
• Seek medical advice if you are immunocompromised

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When Should You See a Doctor?

You should consult a doctor if:

• A dog lick touched an open wound
• You have underlying medical conditions
• Redness or swelling is increasing
• You develop fever or weakness
• The wound does not heal