A 52 year old woman in the UK has lost both hands and both legs below the knee after her pet dog licked a small cut on her leg. The seemingly innocent act sparked a deadly bout of sepsis that changed her life in less than 24 hours.
Manjit Sangha from Wolverhampton felt unwell after work one Sunday in July 2025. By Monday, she was unconscious with cold limbs and purple lips. Doctors at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton fought for her life as she suffered six cardiac arrests. According to her treating medical team, the infection spread rapidly through her bloodstream, triggering septic shock. Surgeons removed her spleen and performed quadruple amputations to stop the infection spreading. After 32 weeks in hospital, she has now returned home. Her husband described the shock of seeing his wife go from playing with their dog to fighting for her life overnight.
What is sepsis
Sepsis is the body’s extreme overreaction to an infection. The immune system releases chemicals that cause widespread inflammation. This inflammation damages healthy tissue and organs instead of just fighting the germs.
According to the NHS, sepsis can develop from any infection and requires urgent medical treatment. Without rapid care it can become life threatening.
It can begin in the lungs, urinary tract or skin. In rare cases bacteria enter through tiny breaks in the skin.
The hidden risk from pet saliva
Medical experts say dog saliva commonly contains Capnocytophaga canimorsus. The bacteria cause no harm to dogs. Yet in humans they can multiply quickly once inside the blood. A simple lick on an open cut may allow the germs to enter the body.
Doctors note that people with weakened immune systems face higher risk. However, even healthy adults can be affected if the bacteria spread rapidly.
Symptoms that demand urgent action
Early signs often appear suddenly. People may feel feverish or unusually cold. Breathing can become fast. The heart may race. Skin may show a rash or turn mottled. Confusion can set in. Some people stop passing urine. Pain may feel severe and unexplained.
Health professionals stress that these warning signs must never be ignored. Treatment within the first hour greatly improves survival chances.
Consequences when sepsis takes hold
Sepsis can lead to septic shock. Blood pressure falls dangerously low. Blood clots may form throughout the body. Tissue can die from lack of oxygen. In extreme cases, surgeons must amputate limbs to save the patient’s life. Organs such as the spleen may also require removal.
Survivors often face long rehabilitation. Prosthetic limbs, physiotherapy and daily medical care become part of life. The emotional toll can be profound.
Staying safe with pets at home
Doctors advise simple precautions. Keep wounds clean and covered. Do not allow pets to lick open skin. Wash hands after handling animals. Anyone with a weakened immune system should take extra care. If symptoms appear after an infection or animal contact, seek medical help immediately.
This case is a stark reminder that even everyday moments can carry unexpected risks. Awareness and swift action can make the difference between recovery and tragedy.
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