Botulism in a Dog Fed a Raw Meat-Based Diet: A Case Report

Raw meat-based diets (RMBDs) have become increasingly popular among pet owners, despite well-documented risks of contamination with pathogenic bacteria capable of causing severe illness in companion animals. This report describes a fatal case of botulism in a 3-year-old female Labrador Retriever weighing 37 kg that was fed exclusively RMBD. The dog presented with acute-onset flaccid paralysis of the limbs approximately 48 h after possible ingestion of decomposing raw meat discarded in household waste. Supportive therapy, including fluid administration, nutritional support and eventual mechanical ventilation was provided. However, the patient developed progressive respiratory failure and died. The presence of Clostridium botulinum type C neurotoxin was confirmed in the dog serum by neutralization test in mice. The case suggests RMBD as a potential source of botulism toxins, particularly when derived from improperly stored meat products. The findings underscore the importance of detailed dietary history in dogs presenting with acute flaccid paralysis and reinforce the need for heightened awareness regarding the microbiological risks associated with raw feeding practices.