UK Woman Dies After Being Licked By Granddaughter's Dog: Here's What Happened

Last Updated:July 23, 2025, 17:14 IST

June Baxter, 83, from Norfolk, died from sepsis after her granddaughter's dog licked a wound on her leg.

The woman passed away on July 7. (Image Credit: X)

An 83-year-old woman from Norfolk died from sepsis after a domestic dog licked a wound on her leg. June Baxter, described as “very frail" but independent and “determined," sustained a leg injury on June 29 while using a commode at her home in Attleborough. The wound was later licked by her granddaughter’s dog, which ultimately caused a fatal infection, according to testimony presented at Norfolk Coroner’s Court.

The inquest concluded that June Baxter died as a result of an accidental infection caused by pasteurella multocida- a bacterium commonly found in the mouths of domestic animals, including dogs. Coroner Johanna Thompson said, “Mrs Baxter was in frail health. On 29 June she was found to have injured her leg at her home. On the following day she reported feeling unwell; she was taken to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital where she was diagnosed with an infection which was subsequently identified to be arising from a domestic dog lick."

Paramedics initially treated the wound at her home, repositioning damaged skin and dressing the cut but June Baxter’s condition deteriorated rapidly. She was admitted to hospital the following day, where blood tests confirmed the presence of pasteurella multocida. Despite treatment, June Baxter Baxter developed severe symptoms of sepsis and died on July 7.

Secondary causes of death included pre-existing kidney, liver and heart conditions, the court was told.

June Baxter’s granddaughter, Caitlan Allin- her primary caregiver- arrived after the injury occurred, at which point her dog licked the open wound. Coroner Thompson formally recorded a conclusion of accidental death.

Location :

London, United Kingdom (UK)

First Published:

News world UK Woman Dies After Being Licked By Granddaughter's Dog: Here's What Happened