Canine adenovirus is a significant concern in veterinary medicine because it causes two serious illnesses in dogs: infectious canine hepatitis and respiratory disease. However, despite the dangerous disease they cause, these viruses can still be prevented.
But before all that, we’ll talk about everything you need to know about canine adenovirus so you can be prepared and informed.
Types of Canine Adenovirus
Canine adenovirus has two types, CAV-1 and CAV-2, which uniquely affect dogs. One type affects the liver, while the other attacks the lungs.
What are the Types of Canine Adenovirus?
Canine adenovirus has two types, Canine Adenovirus Types 1 and 2. These viruses each affect
Canine Adenovirus Type 1
CAV-1 causes infectious canine hepatitis, or ICH, a disease of dogs that can be potentially fatal. It attacks the liver of infected dogs, and they may also suffer damage to the kidneys, spleen, and blood vessels.
The virus generally spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids, such as urine, saliva, and feces.
Canine Adenovirus Type 2
Unlike CAV-1, this adenovirus strain causes respiratory issues in dogs. It’s one of the causes of kennel cough, a highly contagious infection that spreads quickly in congested dog areas. It’s not as dangerous as CAV-1, but it can still cause discomfort and complications if left untreated.
The virus generally spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. It can also spread through contaminated spaces.
Dogs at Risk of Canine Adenovirus
Any dog can be exposed to canine adenovirus and get infected, but puppies and unvaccinated dogs carry an increased risk. Since puppies are still growing, they still have undeveloped immune systems. Additionally, unvaccinated dogs don’t have resistance against the virus.
How Long Does Adenovirus Last in Dogs?
Canine adenovirus types 1 and 2 have an incubation period that lasts approximately 4 to 9 days. Healthy dogs with a strong immune system and regular vaccinations often recover within 10 to 14 days.
What are the Common Canine Adenovirus Symptoms?
The clinical signs of CAV-1 and CAV-2 differ, often presenting significant symptoms in the respective systems they affect.
Signs of CAV-1
Lethargy and weakness. You may notice your dog appearing weak, tired, or uninterested in its normal routines.
Loss of appetite. Affected dogs may choose to eat less or not eat at all. This can also be a sign of gastrointestinal distress.
Fever or high body temperature. A rise in body temperature can also indicate a response to the viral infection. Affected dogs may feel hot to the touch.
Vomiting and diarrhea. Canine adenovirus type 1 in dogs often presents digestive issues, which lead to vomiting and diarrhea.
Jaundice. Because the liver is affected, it can’t process bilirubin, resulting in a yellow tint.
Blue eyes or a cloudy cornea. In some cases, a dog’s eyes can appear blue due to the immune response to the virus.
Bleeding disorders. CAV-1 affects a dog’s blood clotting ability, which results in bleeding disorders.
Signs of CAV-2
Persistent coughing. Kennel cough often presents a hacking cough that sounds harsh and painful. It’s mainly from tracheal irritation.
Nasal discharge and sneezing. Sneezing and nasal discharge can be present, which are ways the virus spreads.
Gagging or retching. These are usual responses to the viral infection.
Difficulty breathing. Dogs affected by canine adenovirus type 2 will have significant difficulty breathing due to the irritation caused by the viral infection.
Other similar symptoms. Much like CAV-1, dogs with CAV-2 will be tired, lethargic, have decreased appetite, and have fever.
How Do Vets Diagnose Canine Adenovirus in Dogs?
Diagnosing canine adenovirus infections early and accurately allows us to give effective and prompt treatments. We start with a physical exam and ask you about your dog’s medical history and lifestyle.
We’ll assess the symptoms and run diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork, advanced imaging, and lab testing, to confirm the presence of the virus.
Your dog’s blood test can help us identify if the liver enzymes are elevated and the white blood cell count is low, especially when we suspect ICH. It can sometimes mimic other fatal conditions, such as canine parvovirus.
Imaging techniques can be used to evaluate the lungs and airways. PCR testing can detect the presence of the canine adenovirus DNA, which is an effective way to confirm the viral cause. Additionally, we can do a viral isolation culture, histopathology, and immunofluorescence.
Canine Adenovirus Treatment Options
As of today, there are no antiviral medications for canine adenovirus, meaning there is no cure for the adenovirus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting recovery.
Depending on the severity of the infection and the dog’s overall health condition, the recovery time can vary. Supportive care for canine adenovirus includes:
Hospitalization for close monitoring by the vet team
Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
Medications to manage symptoms, organ support, and secondary infections
Easy-to-digest foods for nutritional support
In highly critical cases, blood transfusion may be needed if a dog develops bleeding disorders. Those who develop kidney issues will need thorough monitoring and treatment.
How to Prevent Canine Adenovirus in Dogs?
Dog vaccinations are often the most sought-after preventive treatment against many viruses. Since there’s no definite cure for the virus, the adenovirus canine vaccine is your dog’s most reliable defense.
The DA2PP vaccine is available in most veterinary clinics and protects dogs from CAV-1 and CAV-2. To ensure your pet’s health, here’s what we recommend:
Give puppies their first dose of vaccine between six and eight weeks of age.
Administer booster shots every three to four weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
Provide adult dogs with boosters annually or every three years, depending on their risk factors.
The adenovirus dog vaccine’s immunity can last for up to three years, which is why routine vaccination is important. This is especially the case for dogs at high-risk places, such as overcrowded kennels, poorly sanitized pet parks, and other similar settings.
Final Thoughts
Vaccinating your dog, staying vigilant for symptoms, and maintaining good hygiene are some of the effective ways to protect your dog against adenovirus. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can give your canine companion a healthy and disease-free life.
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