Triumph over tetanus

Triumph over tetanus


In the fall of 2012, veterinarians at the University of Florida’s Small Animal Hospital helped a young Labradoodle, named Mocha, as she fought for her life.

Mocha was brought to the hospital with complete muscle rigidity and a 110-degree fever. She couldn’t stand or open her mouth to eat. Mocha was diagnosed with tetanus, a disease caused by a bacterial neurotoxin. Tetanus is so rare in dogs and cats that pets aren’t vaccinated against it.

After nearly 14 days of intensive treatment, Mocha’s muscles began to relax. Weeks of intensive physical therapy then helped reset her muscle function. Mocha was discharged after 1 month in the hospital.

Thanks to the care provided by the UF Small Animal Hospital’s veterinary team, Mocha triumphed over tetanus and hasn’t looked back. Watching her play today, you can’t see a trace of her harrowing ordeal.

 

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