What is salmon poisoning?
Salmon poisoning sounds like it is caused by a toxin, but it involves a bacterial infection in dogs. This infection can occur when dogs eat raw or undercooked salmon, trout, steelhead, or Pacific giant salamanders infected with a fluke (parasitic flatworm) called Nanophyetus salmincola.
This flatworm is generally harmless to dogs, unless it is infected with a bacteria called Neorickettsia helminthoeca. After a dog eats raw fish/salamander, infected flukes embed in the dog’s intestines, allowing the bacteria to enter the blood stream. The bacteria spreads to various organs, resulting in the signs of salmon poisoning.
Salmon poisoning is most seen in Washington, Oregon, northern California, and southern Vancouver Island (Canada). The disease is mainly seen in domestic dogs, wolves, coyotes, and foxes, although it has also been reported in black bears. Cats do not appear to develop salmon poisoning. Humans may develop mild gastrointestinal signs but do not develop salmon poisoning.
What are the clinical signs of salmon poisoning?
Signs of salmon poisoning are typically seen within a week of the dog eating infected raw or undercooked fish or salamanders. Common signs include lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea (which may include blood), fever, weakness, enlarged lymph nodes, weight loss, discharge from the eyes or nose, increased respiratory rate, increased heart rate, muscle tremors, and seizures. If the infection is not treated, most dogs will die within two weeks. Fortunately, treatment significantly improves the chances of survival.
How is salmon poisoning diagnosed?
The veterinarian may suspect salmon poisoning when dogs in the Pacific Northwest develop the expected signs after eating raw fish/salamanders. Finding eggs of the fluke in the dog’s fecal (stool) sample helps to support the diagnosis. Although the fluke itself does not directly cause salmon poisoning, its presence in a dog showing typical signs is highly suggestive of salmon poisoning.
Bloodwork is often performed to evaluate hydration, blood cell counts, and organ function. To confirm the diagnosis, a sample of the enlarged lymph nodes may be obtained using a needle. Bacteria may be seen microscopically within the cells of the lymph node. A special test, called PCR, may be used to directly detect DNA of the bacteria in the lymph node.
How is salmon poisoning treated?
Treatment involves antibiotics to control the bacterial infection and medications to kill the flukes. Dogs with severe signs may require hospitalized care, including intravenous fluids, anti-nausea medications, anti-diarrheal medications, or even blood transfusions.
What is the prognosis for salmon poisoning?
With appropriate treatment, most dogs recover completely from this disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to a successful outcome. Sadly, death is common in dogs that do not receive appropriate treatment.
How can salmon poisoning be prevented?
Do not allow dogs to eat raw fish or salamanders, especially in the Pacific Northwest. When fishing, ensure dogs do not have access to the raw fish/salamander or fish/salamander parts. Monitor dogs closely when around bodies of water to prevent them from eating fish or salamanders. Restrict access to areas where fish/salamanders may be disposed of, including trash cans and fishing docks.
Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.
