A PET OWNERS GUIDE TO CANINE INFECTIOUS DISEASES

Every dog is susceptible to many deadly and disabling infectious diseases. As a concerned and responsible dog owner, it is important to understand and prevent these serious threats. Most all of these diseases are quite preventable but very difficult to treat. It is also important to understand that indoor or backyard dogs are not immune, as many diseases are airborne and/or can be carried in on clothing or by insects and birds. Also, where dogs are in close contact there is a higher risk of infection. Be a wise dog owner; be informed, provide lots of love and don't forget that simple ounce of prevention.

CANINE PARVOVIRUS Parvo has become one of the most common and deadly viral illnesses of pet dogs. Dogs of all ages are affected but young puppies will have the most severe form of the illness. Symptoms include a sudden onset of vomiting, diarrhea that can become bloody, weight loss, dehydration and death. Treatment includes IV fluids, antibiotics and intense supportive care. Many dogs can be saved. Vaccination is important but we have seen many cases in dogs vaccinated with over-the-counter vaccines or at superstore clinics so quality cannot be overlooked.

CANINE DISTEMPER Distemper is still a common and deadly viral infection of dogs that is most common in young puppies. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, nasal and eye discharges and sneezing. Later, severe diarrhea, cough due to pneumonia, paralysis and convulsions can occur. Treatment is usually ineffective and most dogs with the illness die. Prevention is essential to stop this killer.

INFECTIOUS CANINE HEPATITIS (ICH) ICH is a virus that causes a contagious form of hepatitis in dogs. (not humans) Symptoms include loss of appetite, weakness, eye and nasal discharges and a cough. Later gums and other mucus membranes may turn yellow and death can occur. Treatment involves intense IV fluid therapy, intensive nutritional support, antibiotics and other medications to sustain liver healing. Vaccination can prevent this disease.

LEPTOSPIROSIS Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that attacks the kidneys and liver of infected dogs. The disease is contracted by drinking contaminated water or from contact with urine from an infected animal. Symptoms include fever, depression, yellow gums and other mucus membranes and blood in the urine. Dogs infected can become chronic carriers. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics, IV fluids and general supportive care.

BORDATELLA Bordatella is a bacterium that can, along with other viruses or by itself, cause respiratory tract disease in dogs known as "kennel cough". Symptoms include eye and nasal discharges and a loud, harsh cough. Treatment with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications and cough suppressants is usually effective. Dogs put into kennels should be vaccinated.

CANINE CORONAVIRUS Canine coronavirus is a common and contagious viral illness to dogs that can cause disease by itself or along with canine parvovirus. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. Treatment with IV fluids, antibiotics and general supportive care is usually effective. A vaccine is available but not considedred too important anymore.

RABIES Rabies is a serious and fatal illness of most mammals with dogs being an uncommon victim. The infection is spread by the bite of another infected animal. Symptoms include unusual behavior and unprovoked attacks by the cat. Treatment is unavailable but a vaccine is. All dogs must be vaccinated for this illness from four months of age on.

LYME DISEASE Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria that is transmitted to dogs by ticks. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, pain when moving, lameness and lymph node enlargement. Treatment involves antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. A vaccine is available.

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©2007 James W. Day D.V.M., P.C.