Dogs & Electrocution
Electrocution, also known as an electric shock, is commonly seen in dogs after chewing electric cables. Other possible sources of danger include fallen transmission cables, faulty wiring, broken circuits, and the rare occasion of lightning strikes during thunderstorms when outside. You may be wondering what to do if your dog has been electrocuted. The most crucial thing is to avoid putting yourself at risk. Do not touch your dog as the live current may still be present, and it will shock you too.
There will be specific symptoms that your dog will display, and a lot will depend on the strength of the current and the voltage of electricity during contact. Very mild shocks cause nothing more than mild discomfort. This is much similar to humans experiencing static build-up. Severe shocks may cause internal damage to the brain, heart, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. Twitching, muscular spasms, and convulsions may occur.
How do you know if your dog has received an electric shock? You may discover your dog chewing something electrical or may jump as if they’ve just received a static shock. Once it is safe to approach your dog, wrap them in a blanket and proceed to your nearest veterinarian. The vet will perform a complete clinical examination of your dog, including listening to the heart and lungs and examining where the shock occurred. In extreme cases, your dog will be admitted for monitoring and further testing.
Treatment varies depending on the severity and location of the injury. For example, burns may cause the loss of large amounts of fluid and protein. Dogs with burns will receive strong pain relief to keep them comfortable and antibiotics to prevent infection while the skin is healing. The good news is that dogs in generally good health will recover fully. Depending on the severity, it may take weeks or months for the dog to recover.
As always, prevention is key. Most electric shock injuries in the home are preventable. Dogs should be discouraged from chewing cables which should never be used as toys. Persistent chewers should not be left unsupervised in rooms with electric wires.
