A dog with an intestinal virus is difficult for both pet and owner. Although helping a dog that is constantly throwing up and having diarrhea is extremely unpleasant for anyone, the dog with the virus feels plenty worse. There are multiple viruses that affect the intestines, with one of the worst being the parvo virus. Any type of virus, however, is contagious and dangerous and must be treated properly to help heal the sick animal.
-
Identification
-
An intestinal virus destroys the dog's intestinal walls, resulting in insufficient absorption of nutrients in the intestines. The group of viruses that manifest in the intestines contain double-stranded RNA (ribonucleic acid). They are spread through contact with infected feces or through airborne virus particles. A dog may develop several infections because the virus suppresses the immune system.
Symptoms
-
Diarrhea and dehydration are the two main symptoms of a dog with an intestinal virus. Mild symptoms may be irritation and inflammation of the nose, as well as other cold-like symptoms. There are more serious side effects that may occur, however, including conjunctivitis, pneumonia, brain infection and respiratory tract irritation.
Diagnosis
-
A chemical blood profile, complete blood count and urinalysis will be performed by the dog's vet to diagnose an intestinal virus. These tests will differentiate between a virus and an infection that is caused by bacteria. The veterinarian will also study the characteristics and structure of the virus to make a formal diagnosis.
Treatment
-
There are no treatments tailored specifically to an intestinal virus. Veterinarians tell owners to focus on keeping their dog hydrated and its airways clear. Medication will be prescribed based on a dog's specific symptoms. There are no vaccines for intestinal viruses but such viruses usually aren't life-threatening.
Warning
-
A dog with an intestinal virus may be very contagious, so it is important to keep it isolated from other healthy dogs, as well as children and infants. Some respiratory symptoms may return while the dog is recovering. However, if these symptoms are worse than before, take your pet back to the veterinarian for further testing.
Parvo Virus
-
Parvo virus is an intestinal virus that can seriously affect dogs. It can linger for many months and affect multiple dogs. The most common symptoms of this virus are fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and lack of appetite. Vomiting and diarrhea cause a dog to quickly become dehydrated. This virus may even become severe enough to completely destroy the intestine and kill the dog.
-