Canine adenovirus is a significant concern in veterinary medicine because it causes two serious illnesses in dogs: infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) and respiratory disease.
This viral disease is preventable with proper vaccination, but puppies and unvaccinated young dogs are extremely vulnerable. As pet owners, understanding how this virus spreads and affects your companions can help save their lives.
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.
CAV-1 (Canine Adenovirus Type 1)
CAV-1 causes infectious canine hepatitis (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. In severe cases of CAV-1 infection, dogs might experience abdominal pain, internal bleeding, and death.
“CAV-1 can trigger immune complexes in a dog. One example of a complication is “blue eye.” This is when a dog’s eye becomes cloudy and bluish because of inflammation. It can also damage their lymph nodes. When a dog recovers, they can still shed the virus in their urine for around one year, which can be a risk for other animals.” – Dr. Soheyl Simaei
CAV-2 (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. It’s not as dangerous as CAV-1, but it can still cause discomfort and complications if left untreated.
Did you know that most vaccines nowadays use modified CAV-2 instead of CAV-1? The reason behind this is that using CAV-2 for vaccines is safer, and it still protects dogs against both types of adenoviruses
How Canine Adenovirus Spreads
Both CAV-1 and CAV-2 are contagious, and dogs can contract the virus through direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated surfaces and objects, like bedding, toys, and food bowls. The virus can survive in an infected dog’s urine, feces, nasal discharge, blood, and saliva for weeks.
The adenovirus is resilient and can survive in different kinds of environments for months. It’s also resistant to most disinfectants, so getting rid of it needs bleach or cleaners with quaternary ammonium compound. Steam cleaning can also be done to eliminate this virus.
Symptoms of Canine Adenovirus Infections
The clinical signs of CAV-1 and CAV-2 have differences, and recognizing these symptoms can help you seek immediate veterinary care as soon as possible.
Signs of CAV-1 (Infectious Canine Hepatitis)
Lethargy and weakness
Loss of appetite
Fever or high body temperature
Vomiting and diarrhea
Jaundice or yellowing of the eyes, gums, or skin
Blue eye or cloudy cornea
Bleeding disorders
Bruising in the mouth
Signs of CAV-2 (Respiratory Infection)
Persistent coughing
Nasal discharge
Retching or gagging
Difficulty breathing
Sensitivity to bright light
Diagnosis of Canine Adenovirus Infections
Diagnosing canine adenovirus infections early and accurately allows us to give effective and prompt treatments. We assess the symptoms and run diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork, advanced imaging, and PCT 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 like canine parvovirus, like when a puppy has bloody diarrhea.
Through prompt diagnosis, your dog will receive treatment as soon as possible, and you can prevent the spread of the virus to other dogs.
Treatment Options for Infected Dogs
As of today, there are no antiviral medications for canine adenovirus, meaning there is no cure for the virus. 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 fever, pain, and vomiting
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.
Prevention Through Vaccination
Dog vaccinations are the best protection that you can give your pet against canine adenovirus. The DA2PP vaccine is available in our 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 to eight weeks of age.
Administer booster shots every three to four weeks until they reach 16 weeks old.
Provide adult dogs with boosters annually or every three years, depending on their risk factors.
A study found that the adenovirus vaccine’s immunity can last for up to three years. This is why it’s important for high-risk dogs to get vaccinated regularly, along with other core vaccines needed for maximum health protection.
Good hygiene and avoiding certain areas, like overcrowded kennels and poorly sanitized dog parks, can greatly help in preventing infection.
Conclusion
The veterinary industry continues to understand canine adenovirus and find ways to treat and manage respiratory infections and infectious hepatitis in dogs effectively. The virus is truly a dangerous threat to your dog’s health, but it can be prevented.
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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