Type C botulism in young dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Neurology
• Toxicology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.
• Ingestion of contaminated food sources is a primary route of botulism transmission in animals.

Observation:

• A 6-month-old Australian cattle dog pup presented with diffuse lower motor neurone paralysis.
• The onset of paralysis occurred 4 days after the pup consumed a rotting duck carcass.
• Two other dogs ingesting smaller amounts of the same carcass showed less severe symptoms.

Findings:

• Clostridium botulinum type C was isolated from the affected dog's feces.
• Clostridium botulinum type C toxin was detected in the dog's feces and serum (25 LD50/ml).
• Clostridium botulinum type C spores and toxin were detected in environmental samples (soil, mud, water) and bird carcasses in the vicinity.

Implications:

• This case confirms Clostridium botulinum type C as a cause of botulism in dogs.
• Environmental contamination with Clostridium botulinum type C spores poses a risk to scavenging animals.
• Persistent shedding of Clostridium botulinum type C and toxin highlights the long-term health implications for affected animals.