Woman Loses Limbs After Being Licked by a Dog

A routine moment with a family dog may have changed Manjit Sangha’s life forever.

The otherwise healthy woman underwent a quadruple amputation after doctors say she developed a severe case of sepsis — possibly triggered by bacteria introduced through a simple dog lick.

Physicians stress the case is rare. But they also warn it is not impossible.

“This could happen to anybody,” one of her treating doctors reportedly said, underscoring how quickly an ordinary infection can spiral into a medical catastrophe.

According to family members, Sangha initially felt flu-like symptoms. Fatigue. Fever. Body aches. Nothing unusual.

But within days, her condition deteriorated rapidly.

She was rushed to the hospital after her blood pressure plummeted and her organs began to fail. Doctors diagnosed her with septic shock — the most severe form of sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection.

Her hands and feet turned dark as circulation collapsed. Tissue began to die.

There was no way to save her limbs.

Surgeons were forced to amputate both arms and both legs in an effort to stop the infection from spreading further.

Sepsis occurs when the body overreacts to an infection. Instead of fighting bacteria normally, the immune system launches an overwhelming response that damages its own tissues and organs.

In Sangha’s case, doctors suspect exposure to bacteria commonly found in dogs’ mouths. While harmless to most people, certain strains can cause severe infections if they enter the bloodstream — especially through an open cut or compromised immune system.

Health experts emphasize that millions of Americans interact with pets daily without incident. Serious complications are extremely uncommon.

Still, they say her case is a sobering reminder.

“If you feel suddenly very ill and something doesn’t seem right, seek medical attention immediately,” one infectious disease specialist said. “Sepsis moves fast. Hours matter.”

Sangha now faces months — possibly years — of rehabilitation.

Prosthetics. Physical therapy. Occupational retraining. Emotional recovery.

Family members say she remains determined.

“She’s fighting,” a relative said. “She’s incredibly strong. We’re just grateful she survived.”

Sepsis kills more than 250,000 Americans each year, according to federal health data. Early treatment with antibiotics dramatically improves survival rates. Delays can be deadly.

Doctors are urging the public not to panic — but to be aware.

A small cut. A mild fever. A pet’s affectionate lick.

In almost every case, it’s harmless.

But as Sangha’s story shows, when sepsis strikes, it can turn ordinary life upside down in a matter of days.