Introduction
Coonhound paralysis, also known as coonhound syndrome or acute polyradiculoneuritis, is a type of neurological disorder which is seen most often in hunting dogs. There is no cure for coonhound paralysis, but supportive therapies can help a dog to survive the condition and successfully recover.
Effects of Coonhound Paralysis
Coonhound paralysis causes a creeping paralysis to occur in the facial and throat muscles, the leg muscles, and other muscles throughout the body. In severe cases the respiratory muscles are affected and the dog may have troubles breathing. The paralysis is caused by the body’s own immune system reaction; possibly from contact with raccoon saliva, a virus, or some type of bacteria. There is no immunity from coonhound paralysis, and it is possible for a dog to suffer from the condition again if contact with the causative agent occurs in the future.
Symptoms of Coonhound Paralysis
Symptoms of coonhound paralysis generally begin to appear one to two weeks after contact with the causative agent. Symptoms generally appear mild and then gradually worsen. One of the most confusing aspects of this condition is that most dogs still eat, drink, and behave normally even though they are slowly becoming paralyzed.
The paralyzing effects of coonhound paralysis generally worsen for 4-10 days once symptoms appear. After the symptoms have reached a peak, the disease stabilizes. Symptoms of coonhound paralysis can last for weeks, and in some cases the symptoms continue for many months.
Diagnosing Coonhound Paralysis
Diagnosing Coonhound Paralysis can be difficult because the symptoms are very similar to other common disease that affect dogs. Other diseases with these symptoms include myasthenia gravis, tick-borne diseases, infections involving the cerebrospinal fluid, and botulism (commonly from ingestion of dead animals). Taking your dog to a neurologist will help indentify if the symptoms are related to Coonhound Paralysis or the result of some other underlying condition.
Treatment and Outlook
Until the dog is able to function normally again, the dog will need to be nursed and cared for through supportive therapies. Providing your dog some soft bedding will prevent skin ulcers in non-ambulatory. It is also recommended to provide your dog with daily physical therapy and assist with eating and drinking. As long as supportive therapies are continued, the prognosis for this condition is very positive; in most cases the patient is able to recover without any permanent neurological damage.