Canine Rotavirus

Canine rotavirus (CRV) occasionally causes diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset in puppies less than 12 weeks old. This double-stranded rotavirus causes inflammation of the dog's intestines. Adult dogs may be infected, but not suffer illness. In severe cases, CRV may result in severe dysfunction in the intestinal walls.

  1. Transmission

    • Canine rotavirus transmits via fecal-oral viral particles. Dogs with underdeveloped or weak immune systems may be at risk for infection. An infected dog sheds the viral particles in its feces. Another dog or new host then picks up the viral particles through its mouth. As the CRV travels through stomach acids in the digestive tract, the particles target the cells on the villi, the hairs lining the intestines. These infected, targeted cells then swell and degenerate. As the villi contracts and wastes away, the result causes gastrointestinal upset. This short-lived ailment gives way to new cells that replace infected and dead cells.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of canine rotavirus include mild to moderate watery diarrhea in puppies. Dogs may experience mild appetite loss, weight loss, unwillingness to eat and lethargy. A dog suffering from a severe case of CRV may die from dehydration.

    Diagnosis

    • A veterinarian may use a lab test involving tissue samples or microscopic exploration of feces. The lab test known as ELISA is an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test. Special instruments can detect the rotavirus in the villi and other cells of the intestines.

    Treatment

    • Treatment of canine rotavirus involves relief of symptoms such as diarrhea and other intestinal discomfort. Supportive care includes replacing lost fluids and electrolytes. Provide fresh water and food. The veterinarian can advise of any diet restrictions. Keep the ailing puppy warm and dry. An important part of the process is waiting.

      A dog that has reached 15 to 20 weeks of age may not be as susceptible to CRV.

    Prevention

    • Puppies that drink milk from an immune mother may receive protection through the production of antibodies.

    Management

    • Rotaviruses are zoonotic, or transmitted from animals to humans. Wear latex gloves when handling feces. Sanitize the dog's living area. Keep young children and infants away from a dog infected with CRV. Risk of contracting rotavirus in humans is highest in developing countries where an estimated 500,000 children die each year from life-threatening diarrhea.