Canine Hepatitis

Canine hepatitis is a viral disease of the liver in dogs. Though hepatitis begins in the liver, it eventually moves on to affect the kidneys. The strain of hepatitis that plagues domestic dogs is also found in many animals in the wild. Relatives of the domestic dog, including wolves, foxes, and coyotes, are prone to catching canine hepatitis. Different types of bears also run the risk of catching canine hepatitis.

Canine hepatitis is spread through the bodily fluids of infected animals. The virus travels in the blood, saliva, and feces of carriers of canine hepatitis. Therefore, it is important to take sanitary measures when dealing with infected animals to reduce the risk of spreading it to others.

Always make the effort to pay attention to your dog, so you can easily spot signs of discomfort. Specific symptoms of canine hepatits usually begin with a fever. Your dog may also seem out of sorts, unhappy, and lethargic. He may look as though it hurts to move. Additionally, dogs with canine hepatitis often lose their appetites and avoid eating. They may also develop coughs.

If you notice that your dog is demonstrating any of the symptoms of this disease, contact your veterinarian right away. He or she will perform a blood test for the virus. Unfortunately, there is little that the veterinarian can do to treat the disease itself. Rather, they will most likely prescribe medications to treat the symptoms of the disease. With the symptoms relieved through medical treatment, your dog will be able to restore his health and comfort.

Luckily, many dogs with healthy immune systems eventually recover from hepatitis. However, puppies, senior dogs, and those with a compromised immune system may have a harder time getting over the disease.

Talk to your veterinarian for more information on canine hepatits. Most dogs receive a vaccine at a young age that helps to protect them against this disease and others.