League City: 
Organophosphate toxicity in dogs is a condition whereby dogs get affected by the organophosphate insecticide remnants from treating a pest condition. These organophosphate compounds are formulates to damage the nervous system of insects. In addition to this, organophosphates slow down heart beat rate of insects as well as cause tremors and paralysis. This reaction can also manifest in a dog that has been exposed excessively to organophosphate compounds.
Organophosphate insecticides are safe when used correctly but abuse can happen sometimes due to wrong usage. If your dog has been exposed to unusually large doses of organophosphate, treatment must commence immediately to save the poor animal’s life. Organophosphate can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled through the nostrils or ingested in food items.
In this post, we have discussed all you need to know about organophosphate toxicity. Is treatment possible for this condition? We have answered all the questions below.
Causes of Organophosphate Poisoning
Organophosphate toxicity can be caused through several means but the overwhelming culprit is the presence of organophosphate compounds. These toxic solutions are often found in insecticides, medication, and lawn care chemicals.
Below are some organophosphate compounds that are dangerous to the health of dogs:
- Disulfoton
- Famphur
- Fenitrothion
- Chlorpyrifos
- Coumaphos
- Fenthion
- Parathion
- Cythioate
- Malathion
- Permethrins
- Fonofos
- Acephate
- Phosmet
- Pyrethrins
Signs and Symptoms of Organophosphate Poisoning in Pets
Pets that have been exposed to excessive doses of organophosphate have specific signs and symptoms that they show. Early detection is important to ensure treatment is effective. As soon as you noticed the first initial symptoms, quickly administer treatment or take your dog to the vet if you lack experience.
Symptoms come in 3 parts in a case of organophosphate toxicity. The first phase of symptoms is acute and shows up in 24 hours. The second phase can last between 24 hours to 2 weeks and is delayed. The final phase is late, coming 2 weeks after the mid phase.
Listed below is a breakdown of what to expect when these symptoms starting manifesting:
-
First Phase – Acute (within 24 hours)
In this phase, the neural pathways and neuromuscular system is affected. Expect symptoms like:
- Anxiety & Restlessness
- Convulsions
- Weakness & Cramping
- Paralysis
- Troubled Breathing
- Dilated pupils & Watery Eyes
- Diarrhea & Vomiting
- Frequent Urination & Continued Salivation
-
Second Phase – Delayed (within 24 hours to 2 Weeks)
In this phase, the parasympathetic pathways are affected. Symptoms like these are typical:
- Slow reflexes & uncontrollable Jerky movements
- Agitation & Muscle Twitching
- Inability to Make Coordinated Movement
- Muscle Weakness
- Paralysis of the Respiratory System
- Reduced Heartbeat Rate
- Coma
-
Third Phase – Late (after 2 Weeks)
In this final phase, the peripheral pathway is affected severely. Expected symptoms include:
- Affected Vision
- Poor Digestion
- Nerve pain and sensitivity
- Uncontrollable Sweating
- Numbness
How to Diagnose Organophosphates Poisoning
Before commencing organophosphate poisoning treatment, it’s necessary to be certain that your dog is actually suffering from organophosphate toxicity. If you have suspicions that your dog is experiencing this condition, your first call should be to visit an animal clinic in League City.
The vet specialist will examine your dog’s eyes, nose, mouth, blood pressure, ECG and other vitals for symptoms of organophosphate poisoning. A thorough examination will reveal any new developments to the vet doctor. Laboratory test will also be done to check blood details. Expect tests like blood count, liver function test, blood sugar test, fecal examination and urinalysis.
Your dog’s veterinary history might be needed as well. The vet might request to see the insecticide product that was used on the dog or lawn. If possible, provide it to them as it can help in treatment recommendation.
Treatment of Organophosphate Toxicity
Organophosphate poisoning treatment is heavily hinged on the extent of damage the dog has been exposed to prior. As already mentioned, early detection and treatment are crucial for full recovery. The vet specialist would likely start IV fluid drip to restore the central nervous system functionality. Breathing issues can be tackled with oxygen therapy. Paralysis symptoms can be taken care of with specific medication types like Pralidoxime. Convulsion symptoms will be treated with anticonvulsants to give your dog relief.
The degree, method and symptoms of exposure to organophosphate compounds will determine how the treatment will be. Leave the treatment procedure to your vet and trust the process. If contamination was oral, vomiting can be induced. If inhaled, intubation with oxygen can be carried out. In topical, a special shampoo bath can be the first step.
Factually, your dog can recover from organophosphate toxicity if discovered early and treatment begins within the first 24-48 hours.
Recovery from Organophosphate Poisoning
In most cases of organophosphate toxicity in dogs, recovery is possible if treatment is started within 2 days after exposure. Extreme poisoning and late treatment is often fatal unfortunately. It is our hope that if this condition happens to your dog, detection is early.
As animal lovers and pet parents, we owe our furry kids attentive care to keep them in good health. However, mistakes happen which is part of life. Prevention is always better than treatment so it’s ideal to keep insecticides away from pets and kids who might abuse your pets with it. Only use insecticides on your pet according to vet recommendations and the user manual on the product.
For emergency situations, contact your veterinary doctor in an animal hospital in League City not later than 24 hours after discovery. Your pet deserves to enjoy good care all the days of its life.
