Botulism in Dogs

Botulism is a disease involving muscle paralysis (inability to move) after a dog eats food containing a toxin made by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. The bacteria grow in decaying animal bodies or plant material.

Botulism is a poisoning, not a true infection with bacteria. Botulism causes rapid death by paralyzing vital organs such as the lungs.

Botulism is most common in wild water birds, like ducks, and only rarely occurs in dogs. Signs include increasing weakness and paralysis, vision problems, trouble chewing and swallowing, and eventual collapse. Death can occur if breathing muscles or the heart is paralyzed.

Treatment is usually limited and often not effective.