Salmonellosis is caused by members of the genus Salmonella of which there are nearly 2 thousand members! They are ubiquitous in the environment and infect a wide variety of wild and domestic host species. Infection is usually acquired by ingestion of food or water contaminated by Salmonella-laden feces.
The vast majority of infections in dogs go unnoticed. The development of disease is dependent upon a number of factors, including:
The most common sign is diarrhea. However, other signs are possible, including:
Many strains of Salmonella have the potential for causing serious systemic illness. Severe systemic salmonellosis show signs of sudden onset of shock or central nervous system dysfunction.
Owners of animals showing signs of salmonellosis should be aware that the disease can be passed from the infected dog to humans.
Treatment for uncomplicated salmonellosis is supportive in nature - minimizing fluid and electrolyte loss from chronic diarrhea. Further, in order to minimize the possible selection of more aggressive, antibiotic-resistant Salmonella, antibiotics should not be used. Only if it is evident that the infection has spread beyond the intestinal tract and is producing severe, life-threatening system illness should antibiotics be utilized.
Proper hygiene is important to avoid spreading the infection to humans. Hands should be washed often, especially after handling the ill animal, its food dishes, toys, or other possibly contaminated materials. Disinfectants such as chlorine bleach (1:32 in water) should be used to wash surfaces where the affected dog may eat or sleep. Young children, immune-compromised individuals, or individuals taking antibiotics should be kept away from the infected dog.
If any household members develop diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, and fever, the family physician should be consulted immediately and the family physician should contact the attending veterinarian for details about the infected animal.