Identification of botulism C/D in 2 dogs via polymerase chain reaction

Two dogs from the same household were referred to the emergency service of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the École Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse for evaluation of acute onset of flaccid tetraparesis. At the time of presentation, the dogs were recumbent. Neurological examination revealed lower motor neuron deficits in all 4 limbs. Treatment consisted of supportive care. The 2 dogs recovered completely within 1 mo. Epidemiology, history, clinical signs, and clinical progression were suggestive of botulism. As Clostridium botulinum C/D was identified in the feces of both dogs using PCR, botulism was the most likely diagnosis. The source of contamination could not be determined; however, a sheep carcass in the dogs' environment was suspected. This case report details clinical signs, neurological examination findings, diagnostic test results, treatment, and outcome of 2 dogs with PCR-confirmed C. botulinum C/D infection. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first documented case of botulism C/D confirmed with PCR in dogs. Key clinical message: Testing with PCR should be incorporated into the diagnostic workups of dogs suspected of having botulism.