What is secondary drowning in dogs?
Secondary drowning in dogs refers to respiratory complications or breathing problems that develop after a dog inhales water, sometimes hours or even days after the initial incident (Source). It differs from primary drowning, where a dog dies immediately during the process of inhaling water. Secondary drowning happens because fluid in the lungs causes irritation, inflammation, and potential infection that impairs normal breathing (Source). Even small amounts of water entering the lungs can trigger secondary drowning.
What causes secondary drowning in dogs?
Secondary drowning in dogs is caused when water is swallowed or inhaled into the lungs. Even after the dog has left the water, fluid can still build up in the lungs over the next few hours (1). This is different from primary drowning where water inhalation leads to immediate respiratory impairment. With secondary drowning, respiratory issues may not appear until much later after the initial incident (2).
When a dog swallows or inhales water, it can cause irritation and inflammation in the lungs. This results in fluid leaking into the lungs which impairs breathing and oxygen exchange. The effects are not always immediate and can develop gradually over the hours following water exposure. Owners may think their dog is fine after swimming, when actually fluid is slowly accumulating in the lungs (3).
Secondary drowning is a serious risk anytime a dog inhales a significant amount of water. It can happen even if the dog seemed to initially recover normally. Symptoms may only become noticeable hours later as fluid continues building up in the lungs after the incident.
(1) https://www.metrovetchicago.com/services/blog/how-avoid-losing-your-pet-secondary-drowning
(2) https://kencarylpetspa.com/blogs/news/dry-drowning-could-it-happen-to-your-dog
(3) https://www.beaumontanimalclinicab.com/2021/08/15/secondary-drowning/
What are the symptoms of secondary drowning in dogs?
The main symptoms of secondary drowning in dogs include coughing, trouble breathing, foamy mucus coming from the nose/mouth, lethargy, and collapse. According to Beaumont Animal Clinic secondary drowning in dogs, the most common symptoms are:
- Coughing – Dogs may cough frequently or have coughing fits as fluid builds up in the lungs.
- Trouble breathing – Labored breathing, gasping for air, breathing rapidly can indicate fluid in the lungs.
- Foamy mucus from nose/mouth – Frothy or foamy discharge from the nose or mouth is a sign of pulmonary edema.
- Lethargy – Lack of energy and extreme fatigue result from poor oxygen circulation.
- Collapse – As breathing becomes more difficult, dogs may lose consciousness and collapse.
As MetroVet Chicago notes, these symptoms can progress very rapidly after a near-drowning incident, usually within 24-72 hours. Owners should monitor dogs closely following any water aspiration and seek emergency veterinary care if any concerning symptoms develop.
How is secondary drowning diagnosed in dogs?
Veterinarians use several methods to diagnose secondary drowning in dogs:
Medical history – The veterinarian will ask about any recent potential drowning events, such as swimming or playing with water hoses. Owners should mention any coughing, breathing trouble, or lethargy after these events.
Physical exam – The veterinarian will listen to the dog’s chest for abnormal lung sounds like crackles or wheezing. They will check mucus membrane color and monitor breathing rate and effort.
X-rays or ultrasound of chest – Imaging tests like radiographs (x-rays) or ultrasound allow the veterinarian to see the lungs and check for signs of aspiration pneumonia or fluid accumulation. These are common with secondary drowning.(1)
Can secondary drowning in dogs be prevented?
Yes, there are some steps dog owners can take to help prevent secondary drowning in their pets:
Close supervision around water – Dogs should never be left unattended around water, even if they are strong swimmers. Owners should stay within arm’s reach anytime their dog is in or around water to monitor them and intervene if signs of struggle occur.
Use flotation devices – Having dogs wear a flotation vest or life jacket provides an added layer of protection in the water. Though not a guarantee against drowning, flotation aids can buy precious time in an emergency.
Learn dog CPR – Being familiar with CPR techniques for dogs means owners have the best chance of reviving a dog quickly if they aspirate water. Timely CPR can save lives and minimize lasting effects.
While supervision, flotation, and first aid knowledge are useful prevention tools, it’s also key to seek prompt veterinary care anytime drowning or near-drowning is suspected. Early treatment greatly improves the prognosis.
How is secondary drowning treated in dogs?
Treatment for secondary drowning in dogs focuses on several key areas:
Oxygen therapy – This involves administering oxygen to restore normal blood oxygen levels. Oxygen may be given through an oxygen mask, oxygen cage, nasal cannula or other means. Supplying high concentrations of oxygen helps overcome the oxygen deprivation that occurs with secondary drowning.
Draining fluid from lungs – The vet may use medications or procedures to help remove fluid that has accumulated in the lungs. Removing this excess fluid improves breathing and oxygenation.
Medications to improve breathing – Drugs like bronchodilators may be used to open up the airways and make breathing easier. Steroids help reduce lung inflammation. Antibiotics treat or prevent pneumonia which can follow near drowning.
Other supportive measures are used as needed, like warming and IV fluids for shock. With aggressive therapy, many dogs can recover fully from secondary drowning if treated promptly. However, pneumonia and other complications can be serious risks. Close monitoring and follow up care are essential.https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/respiratory/c_dg_drowning
What is the prognosis for dogs with secondary drowning?
The prognosis for dogs with secondary drowning largely depends on how quickly treatment is administered. Prompt treatment is key when it comes to saving a dog’s life and minimizing lasting damage from oxygen deprivation.
If a dog receives veterinary attention and supportive care within the first few hours after inhaling water, the prognosis is often excellent. With rapid treatment, many dogs make a full recovery without any permanent injuries or complications from near-drowning.
However, the longer it takes for treatment to begin, the poorer the prognosis becomes. The lack of oxygen causes damage to the brain, heart, and other major organs. Dogs may develop pneumonia, cardiac abnormalities, neurological deficits, and other life-threatening conditions if secondary drowning goes untreated for too long.
According to one source, “Most dogs that receive prompt veterinary care after nearly drowning can recover completely”(https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/respiratory/c_dg_drowning). So while secondary drowning can become fatal very quickly, dogs can fully recover if treated early on.
With aggressive therapy for any resulting complications, many dogs return to normal and live a full lifespan after overcoming secondary drowning. Close monitoring by a veterinarian is recommended even after initial improvement, to watch for any delayed effects.
Are certain dogs more prone to secondary drowning?
Yes, some dogs are at higher risk of secondary drowning than others. The dogs most vulnerable to secondary drowning include:
Brachycephalic breeds
Brachycephalic dog breeds, those with short noses and flat faces like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boxers, are more prone to secondary drowning. Their shortened airways and difficulty breathing puts them at increased risk if water gets into their lungs.
Older dogs
Senior dogs are more susceptible to secondary drowning, as they may have underlying health conditions that compromise their breathing and make pneumonia more likely after inhaling water.
Dogs with lung disease
Dogs with pre-existing lung disease or damage, such as from chronic bronchitis, are at heightened risk of secondary drowning. Their already comprised respiratory system makes them less able to cope with fluid in the lungs.
In summary, brachycephalic breeds, older dogs, and those with prior lung problems are all more prone to secondary drowning compared to young healthy dogs with normal airways. Dog owners should be extra vigilant about water safety with high-risk breeds.
How can dog owners spot secondary drowning?
Dog owners should look out for symptoms of secondary drowning in their pets for hours after swimming or water activities. Even if a dog seems fine immediately after being in water, symptoms can develop later as fluid builds up in the lungs.
Some key signs to monitor for include coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, lethargy, and crackling sounds when breathing. These symptoms may appear 2-24 hours after initial water exposure as fluid accumulates in the lungs over time. Owners should keep a close eye on their dog’s breathing and energy levels following any swimming or water play.
According to the Beaumont Animal Clinic, lack of oxygen from fluid in the lungs can lead to rapid progression of breathing difficulty, distress, and anxiety in dogs with secondary drowning. So it’s important to monitor dogs closely and continually check for any emerging symptoms in the hours following water activities (Beaumont Animal Clinic).
Prompt veterinary care is crucial if any signs of respiratory distress are spotted after a dog has been in water. Close observation and quick response by owners can help detect secondary drowning early and improve the prognosis.
When to take a dog with suspected secondary drowning to the vet
If your dog is showing any symptoms of secondary drowning after a near drowning event, it is crucial to take them to the vet immediately. Do not delay seeking veterinary care, as secondary drowning is a life-threatening condition for dogs that requires prompt treatment.
According to MetroVet, the symptoms to look out for include lethargy, coughing, difficulty breathing, and distress. Even if your dog seems fine initially after being submerged in water, secondary drowning can set in over the next few days. So monitor them closely for any concerning signs.
As soon as you notice any symptoms or have reason to suspect secondary drowning, call your vet right away or go directly to an emergency animal hospital. Waiting to bring your dog in could be fatal. This is a rapidly progressing condition where minutes and seconds matter when it comes to getting life-saving treatment in time. Do not take a wait and see approach.
Getting immediate veterinary attention gives your dog the best chance of surviving secondary drowning. The vet will provide oxygen therapy and medication to stabilize your dog and drain any fluid buildup in the lungs due to aspiration. Early intervention is key, so do not hesitate to get your dog medical care if secondary drowning is suspected after nearly drowning.
