Posted by Gretchen on April 15, 2001 at 11:32:45:
In Reply to: Baby wether w/tetanus posted by Arn-TX on April 15, 2001 at 07:21:12:
If tetanus, Goat Medicine book recomends:
the site of bacterial proliferation should be searched for, opened to the air, debrided, flushed with hydrogen peroxide, and infiltrated with penicillin. It is suggested that the area be infiltrated with tetanus antitoxin before the wound cleaning process is begun to reduce the chance that more pre-existing toxin will be absorbed during tissue manipulations.
Treatment with systemic penicillin will inhibit additional bacterial proiferation and toxin release.
10,000-15,ooo units Tetanus antitoxin every 12 hrs for at least 24 hrs.
If you have access to a vet, the antitoxin should be given IV,or into the CSF, Anticonvulsants, tranquilizers and muscle relaxants can be used.
Supportave care includes removal of the animal to darkened, quiet surroundings. IV Fluids, or you can use a nasogastric tube to relieve bloat and provide fluids.
The book states that the prognosis is always guarded, but early idedtification and intervention improve the recovery rate. it also says that any sign of improvement is favorable, but it may take several weeks for complete recovery to occur.