Survival and factors affecting survival in small ruminants and camelids attacked by dogs: 62 cases (1994–2004)

Abstract

Objective: To determine the survival rates and factors affecting survival in small ruminants and camelids attacked by dogs.

Design: Retrospective study.

Setting: Two university teaching hospitals.

Animals: Thirty goats, 28 sheep, 3 alpacas, and 1 llama.

Measurements and main results: Medical records were reviewed to obtain signalment, time between injury and admission, hospitalization length, lesion site, treatment, complications, survival rate, and cost. Follow-up information was obtained by telephone conversation with the owner. Sixty-two patients met the inclusion criteria. Six animals were euthanized at admission and thus excluded. Of the 56 animals that were treated, 43 (77%) were discharged, 5 (9%) died, and 8 (14%) were euthanized. Animals that had thoracic or abdominal injuries, required surgery, or received more potent analgesic therapy were less likely to survive to discharge from hospital compared with animals that did not. Complications developed in 50 (82%) animals. Animals with respiratory complications were also less likely to survive to discharge from hospital than animals that did not. Long-term follow up was available on 38/43 (88%) animals that were discharged. Thirty-five of 38 (92%) animals were discharged and recovered from their injuries and 5 animals had long-term complications.

Conclusions: Small ruminants and camelids that are attacked by dogs have a good prognosis for short-term survival. Short-term survival is affected by lesion location and complications.