Woman, 56, Loses All Limbs After Sepsis Linked to Dog Lick

Quadruple Amputation Follows Dog Lick, Highlighting Risks of Sepsis

A 56-year-old woman in the United Kingdom has undergone a quadruple amputation after developing a severe and rapidly progressing case of sepsis. Medics suspect the infection may have originated from a seemingly minor wound, potentially a lick from her dog. The case underscores the often-overlooked dangers of sepsis and the importance of prompt medical attention for even seemingly insignificant injuries.

Manjit Sangha, of Penn, Wolverhampton, endured a harrowing seven-month hospital stay, including 32 weeks in intensive care, multiple cardiac arrests – her heart stopped six times – and the development of pneumonia. Doctors determined that amputation of all four limbs was necessary to save her life.

Understanding Sepsis: A Life-Threatening Immune Response

Sepsis is a rare but incredibly serious medical condition that arises when the body’s immune system, normally tasked with fighting off infection, begins to attack its own tissues and organs. This overreaction can lead to widespread inflammation, organ damage and even death. It’s not the infection itself that causes sepsis, but rather the body’s response to it.

The UK Sepsis Trust estimates that We find approximately 50,000 sepsis-related deaths each year in the United Kingdom. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes. Symptoms in adults can include slurred speech, extreme shivering or muscle pain, severe breathlessness, and skin that appears mottled or discolored. However, sepsis can present differently in different individuals, making diagnosis challenging.

A Seemingly Innocuous Beginning

According to her husband, Kam Sangha, Manjit began feeling unwell after returning home from work on July 14, 2025. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, and by the following day, she had lost consciousness and was experiencing severe respiratory distress, with her lips turning purple and her hands and feet becoming ice cold.

“You’re thinking ‘how can this happen in less than 24 hours?’” Kam Sangha told the BBC. “One minute on a Saturday she’s playing with the dog, Sunday she’s gone to work, Monday night she’s in a coma.”

While the exact source of the infection remains unconfirmed, doctors believe it may have entered through a small cut or graze on her leg, potentially introduced by her dog’s lick. This highlights the fact that even minor wounds can become entry points for bacteria, particularly if not properly cleaned and monitored.

A Grueling Recovery and a Call for Awareness

During her time in intensive care at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton, Manjit faced a series of life-threatening complications. Beyond the need for quadruple amputation, she also required spleen removal and battled pneumonia. She also developed gallstones, which may necessitate further surgery and a prolonged hospital stay.

Despite the immense physical and emotional challenges, Manjit is now back home and determined to raise awareness about the dangers of sepsis. “It’s difficult to explain the experience,” she said. “Losing your limbs and your hands in a short time period is a very big thing. It’s very serious and not to be taken lightly.”

Her husband echoed her sentiment, praising her incredible strength and resilience throughout the ordeal. “Every day was like ‘she’s going to go today’ but she proved us wrong every single day with what she’s been through. She’s so strong,” he stated.

The Importance of Early Intervention

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of recognizing the early signs of sepsis and seeking immediate medical attention. While a dog lick may seem harmless, it can potentially introduce bacteria into even minor wounds. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as thoroughly cleaning any cuts or scrapes, is crucial for preventing infection.

If you suspect someone may be developing sepsis, it is vital to seek medical help immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics and supportive care can significantly improve the chances of survival and minimize long-term complications.

The couple are now fundraising to afford state-of-the-art prosthetics, including robotic hands, to help Manjit rebuild her life. Donations can be made through their GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-manjit-rebuild-her-life.