Escherichia coli bacteremia associated with hypertrophic osteodystrophy in a dog.

Escherichia coli bacteremia was detected in a dog that had hypertrophic osteodystrophy. The dog improved after treatment with cephalothin sodium, iv fluid therapy, and cage rest. The cause of hypertrophic dystrophy has not been determined, although an infectious cause has been suggested. Dogs that are suspected of having hypertrophic osteodystrophy should be monitored closely for evidence of septicemia, and the administration of prophylactic antibiotics may be advisable.