What to Do if Your Dog Has Canine Infectious Hepatitis

Canine infectious hepatitis (CIH), also known as infectious canine hepatitis (ICH), is an acute, septic infectious disease caused by the canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). While it can affect dogs of any age, breed, or sex, it’s most common in puppies under one year of age, often manifesting as acute necrotizing hepatitis. The severity of CIH is frequently exacerbated by concurrent infections, particularly canine distemper. This widespread disease is found globally and remains a significant concern for canine health.

I. Etiology of Canine Infectious Hepatitis:

The primary source of infection is a dog already infected with the CAV-1 virus. Initially, the virus is concentrated in the infected dog’s bloodstream. However, it quickly spreads to various bodily secretions and excretions, including saliva, urine, feces, and nasal discharge, contaminating the surrounding environment. Remarkably, even after recovery, the virus can persist in the urine for six to nine months, making recovered dogs potential carriers. Healthy dogs typically contract the virus through the fecal-oral route, ingesting contaminated material. Transplacental transmission (mother to pup) is also possible.

The CAV-1 virus exhibits robust resistance. Under low temperatures, it can remain viable for extended periods. It retains its infectivity in soil for 10 to 14 days and can survive for a considerable time in contaminated kennels. However, heat readily inactivates the virus. This resilience highlights the importance of thorough sanitation in preventing its spread.

II. Diagnostic Key Points of Canine Infectious Hepatitis:

CIH affects dogs irrespective of breed, sex, or season, although it’s more prevalent in puppies under one year old and during the winter months. Clinical signs often mirror those of canine distemper initially, making accurate diagnosis crucial.

1. Initial Symptoms: The initial phase often mimics canine distemper. Affected dogs exhibit lethargy, anorexia (loss of appetite), and significantly increased thirst. A characteristic symptom is the dog’s immersion of its forelegs in water while drinking excessively. Fever, typically exceeding 40°C (104°F), usually persists for four to six days.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting and diarrhea are frequent occurrences. The presence of blood in vomit or feces indicates a poor prognosis. Many affected dogs experience tenderness in the xiphoid region (the bony tip of the breastbone).

3. Ocular and Gum Manifestations: Seven to ten days after the acute symptoms subside, some dogs develop corneal opacity, appearing white or bluish-white—a condition known as “hepatitis blue eye.” This usually resolves within several days. Petechiae (small, pinpoint hemorrhages) may also be observed on the gums. Interestingly, despite the name “hepatitis,” jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes) is rarely observed.

Without secondary infections, affected dogs usually recover within a few days. While the clinical presentation provides a preliminary diagnosis, definitive confirmation requires laboratory testing of samples collected from the affected dog.

III. Treatment and Prevention of Canine Infectious Hepatitis:

1. Immediate Isolation and Supportive Care: Prompt isolation of the infected dog is paramount to prevent the spread of the virus. Treatment involves administering hyperimmune serum or serum from an adult dog, typically 10-30 ml once daily. Intravenous administration of 50% glucose solution (20-40 ml daily), vitamin C (250 mg daily), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (15-20 mg daily) for three to five days is also recommended. Hepatoprotective medications, such as liver support supplements, are often prescribed. Controlled fluid intake is essential, with small amounts of 5% glucose saline solution offered every two to three hours to prevent dehydration.

2. Vaccination: Prophylactic vaccination remains the most effective strategy. A combination vaccine (typically a 5-way vaccine including protection against canine distemper, adenovirus type 1 and 2, parvovirus, and parainfluenza) provides comprehensive immunity. A separate canine hepatitis and enteritis bivalent vaccine is another option. The vaccination schedule typically involves three doses for puppies aged 30-90 days, spaced two to four weeks apart, and two doses for dogs over 90 days old. Annual booster shots are generally recommended.

3. Hygiene and Management: Maintaining impeccable hygiene in the kennel environment is crucial. Breeding and raising dogs at home, avoiding contact with other dogs, significantly reduces the risk of infection.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Treatment Strategies

While the core treatment focuses on supportive care and immune support, modern veterinary medicine offers further interventions:

Antiviral Therapy: Interferons and other antiviral agents can be employed to combat the virus directly. However, these treatments often come with a higher cost.

Intravenous Fluids: Intravenous fluid therapy is vital to combat dehydration and maintain electrolyte balance, especially in cases of severe vomiting and diarrhea.

Nutritional Support: Providing highly digestible, palatable food ensures adequate nutrition during recovery, aiding in liver regeneration.

Management of Secondary Infections: Antibiotics are frequently prescribed to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections, a common complication that can significantly worsen the prognosis.

Pain Management: Analgesics might be necessary to manage abdominal pain associated with the disease.

Prognosis and Conclusion:

With prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for canine infectious hepatitis is generally favorable. However, the severity of the disease and the risk of complications (e.g., secondary infections) necessitates immediate veterinary attention. Prevention through vaccination and strict hygiene practices remains the most effective approach to safeguarding your canine companion’s health. The earlier the intervention, the better the chances of a complete and swift recovery. Remember to always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment; this information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice.