What are the names of common infections in dogs? - briefly
Common infections in dogs include Kennel Cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica), Canine Parvovirus, and Canine Distemper. These conditions are highly contagious and can cause serious health issues if left untreated.
What are the names of common infections in dogs? - in detail
Infections in dogs can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The most common infections in dogs are:
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Canine Parvovirus: This highly contagious virus primarily affects puppies and young dogs. It causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), and lethargy. Without prompt treatment, mortality rates can be high.
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Canine Distemper Virus: This is another serious viral infection that affects the respiratory and nervous systems of dogs. Symptoms include fever, coughing, diarrhea, vomiting, and neurological signs such as seizures or paralysis. It is often fatal in young puppies.
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Kennel Cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica and Canine Adenovirus-2): Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection that causes a persistent, hacking cough, sometimes accompanied by a low fever or nasal discharge. It is highly contagious among dogs in close quarters such as kennels or shelters.
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Canine Influenza Virus (CIV): This viral infection can cause symptoms similar to kennel cough, including coughing, sneezing, and a low fever. There are two known strains of CIV: H3N8 and H3N2, both of which have been detected in the United States.
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Leptospirosis: This bacterial infection is often acquired from contaminated water or soil. It can cause severe kidney and liver damage, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and increased thirst. Leptospirosis is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans.
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Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi): Transmitted by ticks, Lyme disease can cause fever, lameness, swollen joints, and lethargy in dogs. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications such as kidney damage.
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Giardia (Giardia intestinalis): This is a common parasitic infection that affects the small intestine of dogs, causing diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Giardia can be transmitted through contaminated water or soil.
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Heartworm Disease (Dirofilaria immitis): Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworm disease is a serious condition that affects the heart and lungs of dogs. Symptoms include coughing, exercise intolerance, and weight loss. Without treatment, it can be fatal.
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Ringworm (Dermatophytosis): Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but rather by a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, or nails of dogs. It causes circular patches of hair loss and can be transmitted to humans.
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Ear Infections (Otitis externa): Common in breeds with floppy ears, ear infections are often caused by bacteria or yeast. Symptoms include head shaking, scratching at the ear, odor, discharge, and redness or swelling of the ear canal.
Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and prompt treatment of symptoms can help manage and prevent these common infections in dogs.