What is Dry Drowning in Dogs?
Dry drowning in dogs refers to respiratory complications that can occur after a dog inhales water. It differs from secondary drowning in that the complications arise immediately or shortly after the water aspiration event, rather than hours later.
Specifically, dry drowning happens when water gets into a dog’s lungs and causes the airways to spasm and constrict. This makes it difficult for the dog to breathe properly. The water irritates the larynx and causes it to swell, further obstructing airflow. Even small amounts of water can trigger this response.
As a result, the dog struggles to get enough oxygen even though they are no longer in the water. Symptoms like coughing, breathing difficulties, wheezing, and lethargy quickly follow as the lungs struggle to function normally. Without prompt treatment, dry drowning can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and even death from oxygen deprivation.
The term “dry drowning” reflects that water does not need to fill the lungs for this to occur. Just a small amount of water inhaled can create potentially life-threatening breathing problems after the dog exits the water source.
Symptoms of Dry Drowning in Dogs
The most common symptoms of dry drowning in dogs include coughing, breathing difficulties, wheezing, lethargy, and discomfort or distress, especially in the chest area.
Dogs with dry drowning will often have labored breathing and make wheezing or coughing sounds as they struggle to get enough air. They may be unwilling or unable to move around normally. Symptoms tend to come on shortly after the dog has been in the water, usually within 1-2 hours.
According to the Small Animal Clinic, other signs of dry drowning can include: Crackling sounds in the lungs, drooling, anxiety, or distress. The symptoms may rapidly worsen over time if left untreated.
It’s important to monitor dogs closely after swimming and watch for any signs of breathing troubles, coughing, or fatigue. If you notice any of these symptoms after your dog has been in the water, get veterinary help immediately, as dry drowning can quickly become life-threatening.
How Much Water Causes Dry Drowning?
The amount of water needed to cause dry drowning in dogs depends on the size and breed of the dog. Small amounts of water can cause issues with breathing and gas exchange in the lungs. According to sources, as little as 1-3 mL per kg of body weight inhaled can interfere with lung function, while 4 mL per kg or more inhaled will likely cause immediate death by drowning (Source).
For a small dog breed like a Chihuahua weighing around 2 kg, 2-6 mL of water inhaled could lead to dry drowning symptoms. For a larger 50 kg Labrador Retriever, it would take 50-150 mL inhaled to potentially cause dry drowning. Even a quick dip or playing in water poses a risk if any is inhaled and gets into the lungs.
The amount that causes issues also depends on the dog’s health history. Dogs with respiratory conditions like laryngeal paralysis are at higher risk even with small amounts of water inhaled. Owners of susceptible breeds should take extra precautions around water.
Risk Factors for Dry Drowning
Certain dogs are at higher risk of experiencing dry drowning based on factors like breed, age, and medical conditions.
Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers are more prone to dry drowning because their narrowed airways make it difficult to expel water from their lungs. Older dogs or puppies may not have the strength or stamina to get out of the water or recover after inhaling water. Dogs with pre-existing respiratory issues like laryngeal paralysis are also at increased risk if they aspirate water.
According to Gallant, medical conditions like heart disease, lung disease, and neurological disorders can make dry drowning more likely. Any condition that impairs breathing, weakens the immune system, or causes difficulty coughing up fluids puts dogs at higher risk of complications from dry drowning.
In addition, very young and very old dogs tend to be more vulnerable to dry drowning. Puppies still developing lung capacity and strength may have trouble expelling water from their airways. Meanwhile, senior dogs may have declining organ function and frailty that makes recovery more difficult.
Preventing Dry Drowning
There are several steps pet owners can take to help prevent dry drowning in dogs:
Supervise dogs closely anytime they are in or around water. Even dogs that are normally good swimmers can run into trouble and aspirate water. Adult supervision is key to preventing accidents and recognizing signs of distress quickly. Dogs should never be left unattended in pools, lakes, oceans, or other bodies of water.
Consider having dogs wear a life jacket or flotation device when swimming. Life jackets provide an extra layer of protection and buoyancy to help keep a dog’s head above water. Choose a properly fitted dog life jacket made for swimming.
Teach dogs how to swim and build up their skills gradually. Water safety training, swimming lessons from a certified trainer, and short, positive sessions in shallow water can help dogs gain confidence and learn safe behaviors in the water.
Install fencing around backyard pools. Pool fencing helps prevent unsupervised access to water and potential drowning incidents. Self-closing gates, sufficient height, and regularly checking for damage can ensure fencing remains secure.
Avoid leaving water hoses, buckets, or other standing water in yards where dogs play. Dump out and store water containers when not in use to remove drowning hazards.
Check local weather and water conditions before water activities. Strong currents, waves, or storms can make bodies of water unsafe even for strong swimmers. Delay water access during bad weather or in dangerous water conditions.
First Aid for Dry Drowning
If you suspect your dog is experiencing dry drowning after being submerged in water, prompt first aid is essential. Here are the steps for providing first aid if dry drowning is suspected:
- Get your dog out of the water immediately if still submerged. Be very careful when moving a limp dog.
- Check for breathing problems like coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing. Listen for gurgling sounds.
- If breathing is compromised, open airway by gently pulling tongue forward. Tilt head back slightly.
- Check for pulse. If no pulse, begin CPR immediately.
- Bring dog to nearest emergency vet clinic right away, even if breathing seems normal. Delay could be fatal.
- Administer oxygen if available while transporting to vet. This can help increase survival rate.
- Monitor temperature. Hypothermia may occur after submersion. Keep dog warm.
Speed is critical when dry drowning is suspected. Even if a dog seems fine after being pulled from water, problems can develop rapidly. Don’t hesitate to begin first aid steps and get emergency vet care immediately.
Diagnosing Dry Drowning
Veterinarians use various tests to diagnose dry drowning in dogs. The main diagnostic tools include:
Chest X-rays – To check for fluid in the lungs or pneumonia. X-rays can reveal abnormalities or fluid accumulation that point to dry drowning. (Source: https://www.metrovetchicago.com/services/blog/how-avoid-losing-your-pet-secondary-drowning)
Bloodwork – To evaluate oxygen levels and organ function. Low oxygen levels, electrolyte imbalances, and elevated liver enzymes may indicate dry drowning. (Source: https://kencarylpetspa.com/blogs/news/dry-drowning-could-it-happen-to-your-dog)
Pulse Oximetry – Measures oxygen saturation in the blood. Low levels can confirm respiratory distress from dry drowning.
Endoscopy – Allows vets to view the airways and lungs for fluid accumulation or inflammation from near-drowning.
The vet will also check for symptoms like coughing, trouble breathing, lethargy, and bluish gums which signal oxygen deprivation from dry drowning. A thorough physical exam along with diagnostic testing helps vets accurately diagnose dry drowning.
Treating Dry Drowning
The main treatment for dry drowning in dogs focuses on oxygen therapy to reverse the lack of oxygen circulating in the bloodstream. According to one source, the veterinarian will administer oxygen immediately, either through a mask or via a ventilator if your dog is not breathing on his own. Oxygen helps to reverse hypoxia and improve oxygen circulation (https://www.itsnotthedog.co.uk/post/what-is-dry-drowning-and-how-can-it-happen).
Veterinarians will monitor your dog’s vital signs, including heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, and temperature. They will watch for any abnormalities or changes that could indicate complications. Your dog may be connected to machines to closely track their vitals during treatment.
Medications may be administered to help open up airways, reduce swelling, or treat secondary issues like pneumonia. Diuretics may be given to reduce fluid buildup in the lungs. The veterinarian may give corticosteroids or bronchodilators if inflammation or constricted airways are present (https://gallant.com/blog/dry-drowning-in-dogs/). Your dog may need to stay at the vet clinic for 24-48 hours for close monitoring during treatment.
Complications of Dry Drowning
Dry drowning can lead to some serious complications if not treated promptly. The main complications include:
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Pneumonia – Inhaling water can cause inflammation in the lungs leading to pneumonia. Pneumonia causes the air sacs in the lungs to fill with fluid, making breathing difficult.
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Respiratory failure – Fluid in the lungs prevents proper oxygen exchange leading to respiratory failure. This is a life-threatening emergency.
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Organ damage – Lack of oxygen can damage organs like the brain, heart, liver and kidneys. Organ damage can be temporary or permanent.
Other potential complications include arrhythmias, sepsis, seizures and more. The severity depends on factors like how much water was inhaled, how quickly it was addressed, and the dog’s overall health.
Prompt veterinary treatment is crucial to prevent complications and minimize any lasting damage. Pneumonia and respiratory failure are among the most serious risks. All complications can be life threatening without proper care.
Long Term Outlook for Dry Drowning
The prognosis for dogs with dry drowning depends on how quickly the condition is identified and treated. With prompt veterinary care, most dogs will make a full recovery with no lasting effects. However, delays in treatment can lead to complications such as brain damage from lack of oxygen.
After an episode of dry drowning, some residual coughing or wheezing may persist for a few days as the lungs continue to clear themselves of any remaining fluid. However, this should resolve within a week at most. Your veterinarian may prescribe medications like cough suppressants, bronchodilators, or diuretics to help manage any lingering symptoms and speed healing.
With aggressive treatment in the initial 24-48 hours, the vast majority of dogs will return to normal with no permanent lung or brain damage (How to Avoid Losing Your Pet to Secondary Drowning). However, in severe cases where respiratory arrest occurs and is not quickly reversed, there is a risk of brain injury from oxygen deprivation that may cause lasting impairment. Your veterinarian will monitor your dog closely for any neurologic deficits after dry drowning and recommend appropriate rehabilitation if needed.
Overall, the long-term outlook for dogs after dry drowning is very good, especially when caught and managed early. Just make sure to keep a close eye on your dog for any delayed symptoms for at least 24 hours after potential exposure or submersion in water.