A British woman, Manjit Rebuild, 56, underwent a quadruple amputation after developing a severe infection linked to her dog’s saliva, according to reports. The case highlights the potential, though rare, risks of even minor interactions with pets.
Rebuild initially felt unwell after returning home from work and was later found unconscious by her husband. She was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with septic shock, a life-threatening condition triggered by the body’s overwhelming response to an infection. Doctors warned her family that her survival was uncertain.
Medical professionals believe the infection originated from a tiny cut on Rebuild’s skin that came into contact with her dog’s saliva. While bacteria commonly found in dogs’ mouths are usually harmless, they can, in rare instances, enter the bloodstream through wounds and cause serious infections. In Rebuild’s case, the infection rapidly progressed, impacting her circulation and ultimately necessitating the amputation of both her arms and both her legs to save her life.
Septic shock, the most severe form of sepsis, occurs when an infection spreads throughout the body, causing an intense immune response. This response can lead to a dramatic drop in blood pressure, organ failure, and severe circulatory problems, as well as fever and a rapid heartbeat. More information about septic shock is available here.
Sepsis itself arises when the body’s response to an infection spirals out of control, causing damage to its own tissues and organs. It differs from localized infections, which can often be resolved with targeted treatments like antibiotics. Sepsis is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Learn more about sepsis in animals here.
Symptoms of sepsis can include fever, chills, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and confusion. As the condition progresses, symptoms can worsen to include severe pain, disorientation, and organ dysfunction. Additional details on recognizing sepsis symptoms can be found here.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of promptly addressing even minor wounds and seeking medical attention if signs of infection develop. While the risk of developing sepsis from a dog’s saliva is extremely low, it underscores the potential for unexpected complications from common interactions with animals.
