“Hepatitis” refers to inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis can be either infectious or toxic in origin. It also can be of unknown origin; this is called “idiopathic” hepatitis. In most cases, hepatitis is characterized by symptoms in the affected dog that are related to profuse damage to its liver.
Infectious canine hepatitis (“ICH”) is one of several different types of hepatitis seen in domestic dogs. It has also been reported in bears, coyotes and foxes. ICH is a highly contagious form of liver disease that can come on very suddenly (acutely) and is seen primarily in young animals. It can rapidly lead to death within a matter of hours of the onset of clinical signs. Alternatively, it can develop into a form of chronic hepatitis. When ICH becomes chronic, it sometime is referred to as “blue eye hepatitis,” due to the change in eye color frequently seen in affected dogs. Fortunately, infectious canine hepatitis is not common in the United States as a result of widespread routine vaccination protocols. In this country, ICH primarily is seen in coyotes and in the unvaccinated dog population, especially in pet stores, shelters and tight kennel environments.
Canine infectious hepatitis (ICH) is caused by a specific virus known as canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). There is also a canine adenovirus type 2, which causes respiratory disease. The CAV-1 virus is transmitted between dogs by direct oral or nasal contact with the body secretions from an infected dog, such as urine, feces, saliva and nasal discharge. Exposure to urine seems to be the most common route of infection in dogs. Some external
It is difficult to really say how a dog infected with the canine adenovirus-type 1 “feels” or is affected by the infection. However, in light of the observable signs of severe acute infections, it is safe to say that this can be an extremely serious and potentially lethal disease - one that is capable of causing a dog to suffer a great deal of distress, discomfort and pain, which may or may not be noticed
Dogs presenting with signs associated with infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) will of course be given a thorough physical examination by the attending veterinarian, who also will take a history from the owner about the dog’s noticeable behavioral and other changes. Routine blood work, including a complete blood count (CBC) and a serum chemistry profile, are almost always part of the initial data base, as is a urinalysis. The veterinarian may also recommend a coagulation panel,
The goals of treating infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) are largely supportive and non-specific. Basically, the owner and veterinary team will try to support the dog and make it as comfortable as possible while the infection runs its course. In severe cases, supportive care is most frequently provided on an intensive inpatient basis. It often includes administration of intravenous fluids. Glucose can be given intravenously if necessary to correct cases of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Transfusions