ELECTRIC SHOCKS AND BURNS

Electric shocks occur in puppies that chew on electric cords. Occasionally a dog comes into contact with a downed wire or is struck by lightning. Burns of the mouth from electric cords are discussed in the chapter ORAL CAVITY. Dogs that receive an electric shock may be burned. They may show signs of circulatory collapse and difficulty breathing. Electric current damages the capillaries of the lungs and leads to the accumulation of fluid in the air sacs (pulmonary edema).

Treatment: If your dog is unconscious and not breathing, administer artificial respiration. Pulmonary edema must be treated by a veterinarian.