as one of my dogs (dalmatian) is being treated at the animal clinic for 4 days now against tetanus infection, i wanted to make everyone aware of this risk.

also animals are able to get infected with tetanus and mostly it will result in death. a small puncture wound like stepping on a thorn or nail can let the bacteria in and do its deadly course.

first signs are tensions of the body and face, like a strange look of the eye, 3rd eyelid covering the eye, usually flappy ears almost standing up, wrinkly forehead and a stiff walk and unusual bending of the tail. the first symptoms i saw in my dog was the strange eyes with the 3rd eyelid covering the eyeball half and her ears in higher position than normal, like if she was always very much alert.

then the jaw and throat will get stiff as well and the dog unable to use its tongue f.e. to lick water or pant. it's also called 'jawlock disease'.

for treatment antibiotics, antitoxine, iv and other support will be applied, also quiet and dim room as the nervous system is concerned. if the infection is close to the head or other place which makes the bacteria easy way to go into the dns system all help can be too late and often it is diagnosed too late.

dogs (and cats as far as i know) can also be vaccinated against tetanus, with the human immunisation which will work.

better safe than sorry!!!

Thanks for your info kha khun ELFE .