Anthrax in Dogs

Anthrax is a serious and often fatal disease of many animals and people. It is found worldwide.

Anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis bacteria, which can form spores. Spores are extremely tough and can survive heat, cold, drying, and many disinfectants. As a result, these bacteria can survive for long periods in contaminated environments or on objects.

Livestock can ingest the spores while grazing. Dogs usually become infected by eating raw or undercooked contaminated meat or by contact with blood or flesh of infected animals. Although inhaling airborne anthrax spores is a concern for people, dogs are quite resistant to infection through this route. People can also develop a skin form of anthrax, but this is not thought to be a concern in dogs.

After animals are exposed to anthrax bacteria, illness usually develops in about 3–7 days. The bacteria spread through the blood and lymph system and release toxins that damage cells and lead to organ failure in the body.

Dogs can develop sudden, severe blood poisoning after swallowing the bacteria, sometimes with throat swelling and sudden death. More often, dogs have a milder chronic illness and recover with treatment. Digestive symptoms are seldom recognized because the signs (like loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation) are very general and not specific to this condition.

Many infections and other conditions (such as chemical poisonings) have signs similar to anthrax. Diagnosis requires lab testing of blood to confirm what bacteria are present. Control focuses on vaccinating livestock, isolating infected animals, and safe disposal of any animals that die. If a pet is exposed to anthrax, its fur should be decontaminated to prevent spread to people. However, anthrax spores resist many disinfectants, so check with your veterinarian and local health department for proper steps in decontamination if your pet is exposed to anthrax.

Anthrax does not spread through normal casual contact. Infection requires spores to enter the body by swallowing, breathing, or entering open wounds. People should take strict precautions when handling possibly infected animals or their remains. This includes wearing gloves, protective clothing, goggles, and masks.

If someone inhales anthrax spores, treatment is available to help prevent infection. People who have eaten raw or undercooked meat contaminated with anthrax might also need treatment.