While most dog owners are aware of common health problems and diseases in dogs, there are several new and emerging diseases that you may not have heard of. Since the late 1990s and early 2000s, dogs have been discovered to suffer from diseases and conditions previously found only in humans, such as the flu and West Nile virus. Some are serious; others are minor.
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Dog Flu Virus
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In 2007, a new type of dog flu, thought to have mutated from an equine flu, struck dogs across the United States. Many dogs died from the flu, which is still spreading, and there is no vaccine for it. Thought to spread through the air, the flu kills dogs young and old equally. It is most common in areas where dogs congregate, such as dog parks and kennels. Symptoms include high fever, loss of appetite and fatigue. To prevent your dog from catching the dog flu, bring his own water dish to common areas and don't let him share toys with other dogs when you leave home.
Coronavirus Infections
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Coronavirus infections in dogs have increased dramatically since 2000. Once considered to be a mild infection with no other symptom but diarrhea, the disease has adapted its pathology to attack the respiratory system of young puppies. There is no cure for the virus other than to let it run its course. The major symptom is diarrhea, so puppies who develop the virus must be fed continuous fluids.
Canine Babesoisis
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Canine Babesoisis is an infectious disease transmitted by ticks, and it has been rapidly increasing in the United States since the mid 1990s. It strikes greyhounds and pit bull terriers most often, for reasons unknown. While some dogs may show no symptoms of infection, others can develop severe anemia. Treatment consists of an injection of the drug imidocarb dipropionate, which is repeated after two weeks.
Canine Bartonellosis
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Canine Bartonellosis is a bacterial infection first described in 1995. Bartonella species have afflicted humans for decades, but only recently have been found in dogs. Since 1995, five Bartonella species have been found in dogs. The bacteria can cause dyspepsia and heart failure. Symptoms include lameness, a heart murmur and fever. It is not known how the bacteria is acquired nor how it spreads from animal to animal. There have been no clinical studies done to determine the best course of treatment for Canine Bartonellosis. It is most commonly treated with a combination of antibiotics.
West Nile Virus
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While the West Nile virus is known to pose a danger to humans, it is only recently that the virus started appearing in dogs. Luckily, it is mild in dogs, who suffer from flu-like symptoms when infected. It is passed to dogs when they are bitten by mosquitoes, so prevention consists of avoiding mosquito-prone areas. Dogs can also catch it if they consume a bird that has been infected. Treatment consists of managing the symptoms with rest and lots of fluid intake.
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