Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Inflammation and infection linked to slow recovery in emaciated dogs
By Lesnikowski, Sylvia M et al.·Published in American journal of veterinary research·2025·American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Animal Hospital, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Markers of inflammation and infection are associated with prolonged recovery in dogs emaciated from long-term inadequate nutrition.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of underweight pit bull-type dogs suffering from long-term inadequate nutrition were brought in for help after suspected animal cruelty. The dogs were given a special feeding protocol, which helped them gain weight safely. On average, it took about 4.4 weeks for them to regain 20% of their body weight, but some dogs with signs of inflammation or infection took longer to recover. Thankfully, no dogs died from medical issues related to their condition, and the feeding plan was effective in helping them regain their health.
People also search for: why is my dog so skinny · pit bull weight gain diet · dog recovery from malnutrition
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To characterize the presentation of underweight dogs suffering from long-term inadequate nutrition (LTIN) in suspected cases of animal cruelty, evaluate the efficacy of a feeding protocol, and investigate factors associated with prolonged recovery. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of records evaluating 246 emaciated adult dogs involved in suspected cases of animal cruelty from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2020. Data, including history, weight, clinical signs, parasite test results, hematologic, and urinalysis results, were extracted from the records. Logistic regression models were used to identify significant predictors of delayed weight gain. RESULTS: Most cases were pit bull-type dogs (180 of 246 [73.2%]) with a body condition score of 1/9 (145 of 246 [58.9%]). No dogs died from medical issues related to LTIN. The mean time for dogs to regain 20% body weight was 4.4 weeks, and the mean time for 30% weight gain was 6.4 weeks. In a multivariable analysis, dogs with hyperglobulinemia and neutrophilia were more likely to take more than 4 weeks to reach 20% of their intake body weight, and dogs with hyperglobulinemia and monocytosis were more likely to take more than 6 weeks to reach 30% of their intake body weight. CONCLUSIONS: This feeding protocol resulted in successful weight gain in dogs that were emaciated due to LTIN. Indicators of inflammation and/or infection were associated with a longer recovery time. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Since this feeding protocol resulted in successful weight gain without adverse outcomes, it is recommended for dogs with LTIN.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41038228/