Clinical and biochemical factors associated with survival in equids attacked by dogs: 28 cases (2008-2016).
Authors: Fielding C Langdon, Mayer Jennifer R, Dechant Julie E, Epstein Kira L, Magdesian K Gary
Journal: Journal of veterinary internal medicine
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Prognosis and clinical markers in equine dog attack trauma Dog attacks cause significant morbidity and mortality across veterinary species, yet little has been documented specifically in equids until now. This retrospective review of 28 cases presenting to three referral centres between 2008 and 2016 identified a 21% mortality rate, with several clinical and biochemical parameters distinguishing survivors from fatalities. Smaller equids—particularly ponies and miniature horses, which comprised 57% of cases—faced substantially elevated risk of nonsurvival (odds ratio 0.02), whilst full-sized horses demonstrated markedly better outcomes. At admission, nonsurvivors presented with characteristically lower body temperatures, elevated blood lactate concentrations and reduced serum total protein levels, with all three parameters reaching statistical significance as independent prognostic indicators (P = 0.0004, 0.003, and 0.006 respectively). These findings equip practitioners with objective admission markers to guide prognostic counselling and treatment intensity, particularly emphasising the importance of aggressive thermoregulation and early correction of metabolic acidosis and protein loss in these trauma cases, whilst highlighting the inherently worse outlook for smaller equid breeds regardless of intervention.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Small equids (ponies, miniatures) attacked by dogs face substantially higher mortality—prioritize aggressive resuscitation and monitoring in these patients
- •On presentation, measure lactate, rectal temperature, and total protein immediately; these biochemical parameters help stratify prognosis and guide intensive care decisions
- •Hypothermia and hypoproteinemia indicate severe systemic compromise in trauma cases and warrant intensive fluid support and warming protocols
Key Findings
- •Overall mortality rate from dog attacks in equids was 21%, similar to other veterinary species
- •Smaller equids (ponies and miniature horses, 57% of cases) had significantly higher mortality risk compared to full-sized horses (odds ratio 0.02)
- •Admission blood lactate concentration, body temperature, and serum total protein were significant prognostic indicators: elevated lactate, hypothermia, and hypoproteinemia were associated with nonsurvival