In this article, we’ll explore common infectious diseases in dogs, their symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures. Dogs can contract various infectious diseases, some of which are particularly serious and contagious. Here is an overview of key infectious diseases in dogs to monitor and the actions necessary to ensure their health.

Symptoms of Infectious Diseases in Dogs:

Symptoms vary according to the type of disease. Dogs suffering from infectious diseases may show signs such as:

• Fever
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Preventing infectious diseases involves vaccination and strict hygiene measures.

Treatment of Infectious Diseases in Dogs:

Treatment depends on the specific disease. Diseases like rabies and parvovirus require urgent intervention, while others may be managed effectively with symptomatic care and veterinary support.

Rabies

Rabies is a severe viral disease affecting the central nervous system. It is mainly transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. The virus can be present up to 8 days before symptom onset. Rabies manifests in two forms:

• Furious form: aggression and behavioral changes
• Paralytic form: difficulty swallowing

Symptoms typically appear 2 to 10 days post-infection. Due to transmission via bites, vaccinating dogs from 3-4 months of age is crucial, followed by annual or triennial boosters. In case of a bite, thoroughly wash the wound with soap and consult a physician.

Parvovirus

Parvovirus causes severe hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. Symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and fever typically appear 3-5 days after infection. The virus can survive up to 6 months in the environment. Breeds such as Dobermans and Rottweilers are particularly vulnerable.

Vaccination starts at 6-8 weeks of age, with monthly boosters until 16 weeks, then annually. Treatment primarily involves supportive care during the illness.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a potentially deadly bacterial infection affecting kidneys and liver. Incubation lasts 5-6 days, with symptoms including gastroenteritis, nephritis, and hepatitis. Dogs contract it through contact with contaminated urine, blood, or water.

To prevent leptospirosis, vaccination is recommended from 3-4 months of age, repeated annually. This disease is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans.

Distemper (Canine Distemper)

Distemper is a severe viral disease, often fatal. Symptoms include anorexia, fever, vomiting, and neurological problems. It spreads via airborne droplets and bodily secretions, and infected dogs can transmit the virus up to 2 weeks after recovery.

Vaccination begins at 6-8 weeks of age, with monthly boosters until 16 weeks. The prognosis for infected dogs remains guarded.

Adenovirus (Rubarth’s Disease)

Adenovirus causes acute hepatitis. Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Incubation lasts 3-6 days, and recovery usually occurs within 10 days.

Puppies are vaccinated at 8, 12, and 16 weeks, followed by annual boosters.

Kennel Cough

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease transmitted through airborne droplets. It can involve viruses and bacteria. Symptoms include dry cough, fever, and fatigue.

Two vaccine types exist:

• Intranasal vaccine (rapid action)
• Injectable vaccine (administered in two doses, one month apart, then annually)

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, causing symptoms such as lameness, fever, and appetite loss. Breeds like Golden Retrievers and Labradors are more susceptible.

Treatment involves antibiotics, and prevention includes annual vaccination and tick-control products.

Conclusion

Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect your dog against these serious diseases. Besides timely vaccination, regular veterinary check-ups help adapt the vaccination plan to your dog’s specific needs. Good prevention is essential for the health and wellbeing of your canine companion.