Escherichia coli, or E. coli, is a bacteria that normally lives in the intestines of healthy dogs. While most strains are harmless parts of the natural gut flora, specific pathogenic strains can cause an infection called colibacillosis. An overgrowth of these bacteria or exposure to a harmful strain can disrupt a dog’s health. This is a greater concern for puppies and dogs with compromised immune systems, as they are more susceptible to infection.
How Dogs Contract E. coli
The most frequent way dogs get an E. coli infection is by ingesting contaminated substances. This often happens when a dog consumes food, especially raw or undercooked meat, that harbors pathogenic strains. Commercial dog foods and treats have also been recalled for E. coli contamination. Contaminated water sources, such as puddles or stagnant ponds, can also serve as a source of infection.
Another transmission pathway is through contact with the feces of an infected animal. This fecal-oral route is common in environments where multiple dogs gather, such as kennels or dog parks, if sanitation is not well-maintained. Puppies are vulnerable and can contract the infection from their mother if she is unhealthy or the birthing environment is unsanitary. A puppy’s immune system is less equipped to fight infection if it does not receive enough antibody-rich colostrum (the first milk).
Symptoms of an E. coli Infection
The signs of an E. coli infection vary depending on its location in the dog’s body. For gastrointestinal infections in the lower intestines, owners may observe sudden watery or bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and a lack of appetite. This can lead to dehydration, which manifests as lethargy and weakness. In severe cases, the infection can cause a bluish tint to the gums and skin from a lack of oxygen.
E. coli can also be a primary cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in dogs. The symptoms of a UTI are distinct from a gastrointestinal infection and include an increased need to urinate, pain during urination, and cloudy or bloody urine. An owner might also notice their dog licking their genital area more than usual.
Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose an E. coli infection, a veterinarian will start with a physical examination and a review of the dog’s symptoms and history. For suspected gastrointestinal cases, a fecal analysis is used to identify pathogenic E. coli strains. If a urinary tract infection is suspected, a urinalysis will be performed, and a urine culture may be recommended to identify the bacteria and determine which antibiotics will be most effective.
Treatment for E. coli infections involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria, such as cephalexin or cefpodoxime. Supportive care is also a component of the treatment plan, especially for dogs suffering from dehydration. This may include administering intravenous (IV) fluids to restore hydration and correct electrolyte imbalances. For dogs that have lost their appetite, anti-nausea medications or a temporary feeding tube may be necessary.
Preventing E. coli Infections in Dogs
Preventing E. coli infections revolves around diligent hygiene and food safety. One of the most effective measures is to keep a dog’s environment clean by promptly picking up and disposing of feces. Providing constant access to fresh, clean water and washing food and water bowls regularly also reduces the risk of exposure, which is important in multi-pet households to prevent cross-contamination.
For owners who feed a raw diet, safe food handling is necessary. This includes storing meat properly and cleaning all surfaces and bowls immediately after feeding. Washing your hands thoroughly after handling your dog, their food, or their waste helps prevent the spread of bacteria. These practices protect the dog and also reduce the risk of transmission to humans.