What does plague look like in dogs? - briefly
The canine plague typically manifests as sudden onset of high fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Infected dogs may also exhibit swollen lymph nodes, particularly around the neck and head area.
What does plague look like in dogs? - in detail
Canine plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is a serious and often fatal disease that affects dogs and can pose significant health risks to humans as well. Recognizing the signs of plague in dogs is crucial for prompt treatment and prevention of spread.
The onset of symptoms typically occurs within 3-7 days after exposure to the bacterium. The initial symptoms are often non-specific and may include lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever. As the disease progresses, more specific signs become apparent:
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Swollen Lymph Nodes: One of the most characteristic features of plague in dogs is the swelling of lymph nodes, particularly those under the jaw or behind the ears. These swellings, known as buboes, can be quite large and painful to the touch. In some cases, they may rupture, leading to a discharge of pus.
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Respiratory Symptoms: If the plague affects the lungs, dogs may develop pneumonia-like symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and rapid, shallow breaths. This form of the disease is known as pneumonic plague and is highly contagious.
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Skin Lesions: In some cases, dogs may develop dark patches or lesions on their skin, particularly around the tail or hindquarters. These lesions are a result of the bacterium affecting the blood vessels and can be quite painful.
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Abdominal Pain: Plague can also affect the internal organs, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, this can progress to septicemia, a systemic infection that can be life-threatening.
It is essential for pet owners to be vigilant about these signs, especially if they live in areas where plague is endemic or if their dogs have recently been exposed to potentially infected wildlife such as rodents or rabbits. Prompt veterinary care is critical for the treatment of canine plague, which typically involves antibiotics and supportive therapy.
Prevention measures include keeping dogs away from areas known to harbor infected wildlife, using flea and tick control products regularly, and ensuring that dogs are not allowed to roam freely in high-risk environments. Vaccines for plague are available but are not always effective against all strains of the bacterium, making careful observation and quick action in case of suspected infection all the more important.