What is Coonhound paralysis?
Coonhound paralysis is a form polyradiculoneuritis. Because the reasons behind the identified health problems is not yet known, it is often referred to as acute idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis. (Idiopathic = Disorder without known cause.) What we do know is that the disease is somehow associated with Racoon bites, and that the symptoms are caused by auto-immune reaction. Coonhound paralysis occurred only in dogs that had previously been aware of ("allergic") to certain antigens, and these antigens are most often proteins from saliva Racoon. When a dog bites a second time, the immune system runs amok. Coonhound paralysis in dogs, there is an inflammation of the nervous and immune mediated nerve roots. Dog's immune system will attack the body's own neural network is not protected.
Despite extensive research, no poison that had been identified in saliva and paralysis Coonhound raccoons because it may not have a reaction to poison. The members also have searched in vain for any micro-organisms present in saliva that can cause paralysis Racoon Coonhound.
Hind leg weakness, decreased reflexes, and paralysis are common signs of Coonhound paralysis in dogs. It should be noted that only a very limited number of all dogs bitten by racoons expand Coonhound paralysis. It seems as though the disease only affects a dog, not a cat.
Coonhound paralysis symptoms in dogs
Coonhound paralysis symptoms will usually begin to show a few days after the bite Racoon. Dogs will show hind leg weakness and decreased reflexes, and then gradually become more and more paralyzed. As Coonhound paralysis progresses, the affected dog will lose control of their bladder. In severe cases, the dog may also lose control of his breathing.
Dogs that receive treatment supportif will usually heal in 4-6 weeks. Most dog runs Coonhound paralysis if they receive the right treatment, but paralisa breathing can cause death.
Coonhound paralysis vs rabies
Raccoon bites not only can cause paralysis Coonhound, also known racoons carry rabies. Coonhound paralysis symptoms sometimes very similar to the early signs of rabies and is therefore very important to let a qualified veterinarian to determine the cause of the problem of your dog.
Coonhound paralysis treatment for dogs
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for dogs with Coonhound paralysis. In addition, dogs that have suffered in the past Coonhound paralysis showed an increased risk of developing further symptoms if exposed to raccoon saliva again.
Many dog overcome paralysis Coonhound own, as long as they are treated in the mean time. Dogs affected may for instance require fluid therapy to prevent dehydration, hand feeding to prevent malnutrition, and bed appropriate to prevent pressure sores. Some dogs with Coonhound paralysis requiring respiratory support.
Because dogs can develop urinary problems, catheter may be required. Important aspect of treatment is to prevent paralysis Coonhound urine scald.
Physiotherapy is needed to maintain the mobility and circulation of muscles and joints, and will also prevent muscle attenuation.
In extreme cases, could take up to 12-16 weeks for dogs with Coonhound paralysis to recover limb control. Some dogs never recover, while others only heal part. But there are also many dogs that achieve a full recovery. Dogs with respiratory problems have a very bad prognosis.
