Can my chickens be making my dog sick?

[texastalking]

My dog was recently diagnosed with a gastrointestinal disorder known as Protein Losing Enteropathy. The only change I can think of is I keep chickens. Could my coming into their area after walking around the coop have brought bacteria in to the dogs and caused this? Also I have been having a rash on my face since getting chickens as well. Any info would be appreciated!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

One cause of it can be salmonella, so it's possible your dog got sick from your chickens. I have been keeping chickens and dogs for many years without incident. The dogs eat a lot of chicken poop, it's impossible to stop.

As far as you having a rash, it's entirely possible for you to be allergic to chickens. So both things are possible, but they could also be unrelated.

Sorry I'm not much help. Hopefully your dog gets better. Sounds like it doesn't ever go away fully.

 

[junebuggena]

Protein Losing Enteropathy is a symptom of an underlying issue. It's not a complete diagnosis. There are many possible causes, including cancer or a food allergy. It may having absolutely nothing to do with your chickens.

 

[texastalking]

Protein Losing Enteropathy is a symptom of an underlying issue. It's not a complete diagnosis. There are many possible causes, including cancer or a food allergy. It may having absolutely nothing to do with your chickens.

That is very true. They have ruled out a lot of possibilities, it was just something I was thinking about.

 

[junebuggena]

Cleaning out chicken coops with out wearing a dust mask is a big no-no. When chicken poo drys out, it turns into a powder. When removing the litter, those little particles of poo can be inhaled, causing severe respiratory infections. It's chicken keeping basics. Always wear a dust mask when cleaning out a brooder or coop.

 

[texastalking]

One cause of it can be salmonella, so it's possible your dog got sick from your chickens. I have been keeping chickens and dogs for many years without incident. The dogs eat a lot of chicken poop, it's impossible to stop.

As far as you having a rash, it's entirely possible for you to be allergic to chickens. So both things are possible, but they could also be unrelated.

Sorry I'm not much help. Hopefully your dog gets better. Sounds like it doesn't ever go away fully.

Thanks! The only contact they have is from me...I usually take care of the chickens then walk into the guest house where they are at. I recently got very sick after cleaning the pen and then got to thinking that maybe by my clothing, shoes, etc coming into contact and then going to feed the dogs I could be passing bacteria around. Yes the PLE isn't a very encouraging diagnosis.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Thanks! The only contact they have is from me...I usually take care of the chickens then walk into the guest house where they are at. I recently got very sick after cleaning the pen and then got to thinking that maybe by my clothing, shoes, etc coming into contact and then going to feed the dogs I could be passing bacteria around. Yes the PLE isn't a very encouraging diagnosis.

You could be sensitive to chicken dander. Wearing a dust mask is a good idea when cleaning out the coop.

If your dog hasn't had actual contact with your chickens than I would probably rule them out for the most part as the cause. Sorry about your dog.