Campylobacter is a bacterial infection that dogs can acquire through food or water. It may cause gastrointestinal symptoms that range from mild to severe, a condition called campylobacteriosis. Because of similar symptoms, dog owners may confuse campylobacteriosis with the life-threatening disease parvovirus.
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No Symptoms
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Most dogs infected with camylobacter do not show any symptoms, and the infection might only be diagnosed through a routine physical exam. Dogs that do show symptoms usually are puppies younger than 6 months old.
Diarrhea
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Diarrhea is the main symptom of campylobacter infection. It begins with loose stools and progresses to minor or severe diarrhea, which may or may not have a foul odor. The diarrhea can be watery or mucus-covered and might contain blood.
Additional Symptoms
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Additional possible symptoms include fever, malaise, lack of appetite, signs of stomach pain and vomiting. A dog, particularly a puppy, may whine, whimper or cry.
Duration
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Diarrhea in campylobacteriosis usually lasts three to seven days, but sometimes intermittent diarrhea continues for more than two weeks. Some dogs will experience intermittent diarrhea for several months.
Considerations
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Campylobacteriosis rarely is life-threatening, but it can be fatal to dogs with other illnesses or compromised immune systems.
Treatment
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The disease usually resolves with no treatment, although a veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics. Dogs with severe diarrhea may need intravenous hydration.
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