Foodborne hepatitis in dogs. Infectious hepatitis in dogs: treatment regimen and diagnosis

Infectious hepatitis is a contagious viral disease that affects a large group of carnivores. The disease was first recorded in Sweden by Rubort in 1937. In the literature of previous years, this disease was often called Rubort's disease. Later, infectious hepatitis in dogs was noted in America, Austria, Finland, Germany, Switzerland and other countries. Since 1953, the disease has been registered in Russia.

1. CAUSE OF DISEASE
The causative agent of infectious hepatitis (also the causative agent of epizootic encephalitis in foxes) is a DNA-containing virus belonging to the adenovirus family (viruses of this family were first isolated from human adenoids).
The Adenoviridac family has two main genera: Mastadcnovirus and Aviadenovirus. The causative agent of infectious hepatitis Adcnovirus canine type 1 (Ad can-1) belongs to the genus Mastadcnovirus. This also includes another canine adenovirus, Adcnovirus canine type 2, the causative agent of infectious laryngotracheitis in dogs. At the same time, the Ad can-2 species antigenically has very little in common with the Ad can-1 species.
The causative agent of infectious canine hepatitis, like other adenoviruses, has an interesting and complex structure (Fig. 7). This virus is presented in the shape of an icosahedron (20 surfaces and 12 vertices) with a diameter of 70-80 nm. The protein shell (capsid) consists of a large number of subunits (252), of which 12 are located at the tops and are called pstons. The remaining capsomeres are called hexons. From. Each penton produces a filamentous formation called a fibril. It turns out that structurally each such penton is surrounded by 5 hexons (that’s why it is called a penton), and a hexon is surrounded by 6 connected hexons, respectively. Hexons and pentons contain various viral proteins - antigens, and if general group antigens are associated with hexons, then the structures of pstons contain antigens that determine a more specific serovariant. Inside the capsid there is a fairly large genome (molecular weight of viral DNA>23.8x106).
Ad can-1 has oncogenic activity, causing the formation malignant tumors in laboratory animals.
The virus is relatively resistant to environmental factors. At 37 °C it persists for up to 23 days, at 12 °C for about 3 months, at 4 °C for more than nine months, but the virus is not heat-resistant and dies almost instantly when boiled. It is also unstable to disinfectants such as formaldehyde, phenol, Lysol, peroxide compounds, and chloramine. In feces and various biological secretions it can be stored in natural conditions for several months. In addition to the characteristic disease in dogs and epizootic encephalitis in foxes, the virus causes similar diseases in wolves, bears, coyotes, arctic foxes and raccoons. No human disease with the Ad can-1 virus has been reported.
2. PATHOGENESIS 2.1. Features and predisposition.
Young animals under the age of one year, as well as weakened and helminth-affected animals are most susceptible to infection with the infectious hepatitis virus.
2.2. Dynamics of pathogenesis.
It is believed that in natural conditions the most likely route is the oral route. Entering through the mouth, the virus initially fixes on the surface of the pharyngeal mucosa and infects epithelial cells palatine tonsils causing inflammation (tonsillitis).
Attachment of the virus to the target cell is carried out under low pH conditions due to the structures of the penton base, and in a neutral environment through filamentous processes - fibrils (it is with them that the hemagglutinating properties of the virus are associated). The attachment process can be inhibited with a solution of 0.5-1.0 mM densylcadaverine or 10-15 mM deoxyglucose.
The virus enters the cell by pinocytosis or directly through the cell membrane. Interestingly, penton base proteins take the most active part in this process. There is evidence that these proteins directly disrupt the cell membrane and facilitate the entry of the virus. Even those highlighted in pure form(i.e. in the absence of a virus) such proteins have a strong cytopathic effect on the cell.
Viral entry and undressing require the presence of certain bivalent cations and can be completely blocked by a solution of 50 mM sodium azide or 1 mM densylcadaverine. Undressing occurs in the cytoplasm, although it literally begins upon contact with the host cell membrane.
Replication and reproduction of virions in Ad can-1 occur similarly to what happens in other adenoviruses, causing a rapid cytopathic effect in the affected cells.
After epithelial cells of the palatine tonsils, the virus can infect lymphoid cells (lymphocytes) and phagocytes located in this organ. Further through lymphatic vessels and the virus enters the blood into the regional (submandibular and retropharyngeal) lymph nodes, and from there with the blood flow throughout the body. As a rule, the virus infects cells of the kidneys, liver, lymph nodes, thymus, intestines, etc. Multiple inflammatory foci appear.
The Ad can-1 virus has the ability to directly infect and destroy vascular endothelial cells. As a result, vascular permeability is impaired and, as a consequence, various organs(intestines, liver, kidneys, spleen, meninges, lymph nodes, etc.) multiple swelling and hemorrhages develop - a characteristic sign of canine hepatitis. If the course is unfavorable, necrotic lesions may form in these organs.
Destructive changes are especially pronounced in the liver, where the virus infects the cells of the hepatic parenchyma, causing the phenomenon of granular-fatty degeneration in it. In acute cases, this process can be accompanied by intense cellular decay and the formation of necrotic foci in the liver.
The process usually begins with the virus damaging the endothelium of the blood vessels of the liver. As a result of an increase in their porosity, numerous perivascular edema and hemorrhagic infiltration of the organ develop. On histosections at this time, one can observe a pronounced outline of the lobular pattern of the liver due to the effusion of plasma and blood cells into the lumens of Disse.
Often, with vascular pathology, collaterals arise between the portal and vena cava ( portal hypertension). As a result, unabsorbed toxic products from the intestines (and primarily ammonia), bypassing the liver, enter the circulating bloodstream. Toxicosis develops, which causes irritation of the vomiting centers of the brain. The release of bile pigments into the blood can also be a result vascular pathologies.
The development of toxicosis is also actively promoted by the reproduction of the virus in Kupffer cells, the main “professional” macrophages of the liver, which ensure the neutralization of various microorganisms and their toxins. As a result of infection by the virus, these cells die. Impaired liver function and, in particular, suppression of the processes of resorption of vitamin K by liver cells lead to a decrease in the production of blood clotting factors (prothrombin, etc.). This fact is closely related to the etiology of multiple hemorrhagic processes in the body and determines their intensity.
Thus, the main mechanism of the pathological effect of the Ad can-1 virus is damage to epithelial and endothelial cells, which leads to increased vascular permeability and, as a consequence, the development of edema, hemorrhage and multiple inflammatory reactions. Particularly active destructive processes occur in the liver.
2.3. Relationship with the immune system.
The actions of the virus as an infectious agent cause an adequate response from the immune system. It has been established that 5-7 days after infection, antibodies specific to this virus begin to appear. Interestingly, not all of them are able to neutralize this virus. Antibodies to the pston base protein and fibril protein are most active in neutralizing the virus. Since these structures are responsible for the penetration of the virus into the cell, it is believed that specific antibodies, by attaching to these proteins, disrupt their functions. Moreover, since the capsid assembly is, as it were, “closed” on the pston base proteins, their conformational changes that occur upon interaction with antibodies do not allow the completion of virion assembly. As a result, virus reproduction is blocked. The antiviral effect of antibodies is especially enhanced in the presence of complement proteins.
Thus, antibodies suppress (inhibit) the action of viruses that are in the bloodstream or at the stage of capsid assembly. However, with the appearance of antibodies, immune complexes (virus-antibody) begin to form, which, when there is an excess of virus, initiate platelet and leukocyte aggregation reactions on the endothelium blood vessels. And this, in turn, increases vascular permeability, which entails the development of hemorrhagic infiltrations and other pathological mechanisms already described above.
Neutralization of immune complexes in the body is provided mainly by phagocytes. They, together with effector lymphoid cells, are also responsible for the processes of killing (killing) cells affected by the virus (virus factories).
However, it is noted here that the virus is capable of somehow disrupting the mechanisms of antigen presentation by macrophages. As a result, the reactions of the normal formation of a specific immune response are suppressed.
Moreover, phagocytes and lymphocytes themselves serve as targets for the virus. By multiplying in the cells of the immune system, the virus is capable of not only suppressing their functional activity, but also completely destroying phagocytes and lymphocytes. It is no coincidence that when the disease occurs, pronounced leukopenia is noted (up to 2-3 thousand leukocytes). The body responds to this by increasing the migration and differentiation of stem cells. And during periods of lowering the temperature or recovery, significant leukocytosis can already be observed (i.e., the number of lymphocytes and phagocytes increases to 30-35 thousand).
Thus, in response to the actions of the Ad can-1 virus and the development pathological reactions The immune system begins to produce antibodies that suppress the activity of the virus. At the same time, reactions are increasing cellular immunity, and in response to the destruction of immune system cells by the virus, the production of new leukocytes is activated. Animals that have recovered from the disease usually acquire lifelong immunity.

3. CLINICAL SIGNS
According to literature data from 30-40 years ago, infectious hepatitis often occurs in acute form, as a result of which the animal dies after 24 hours or 3-5 days. Currently, apparently due to mass vaccinations and increased resistance of dogs to this pathogen, such highly virulent strains of viruses are rare. On modern stage More often, a more chronic course of the disease is noted, the death of dogs from which is very insignificant.
It is believed that the first clinical signs of the disease in natural conditions appear on the 3-10th day after infection. The animal becomes lethargic, apathetic, and refuses food. Later, vomiting (often with bile) and diarrhea (diarrhea) appear.
For early period The development of tonsillitis (gate of infection) and pharyngitis is typical. With significant pathology, small serous or purulent discharges from the nose and eyes may develop.
In the acute course of the disease, especially during remissions, the corresponding symptoms of fever are noted:
temperature rise (sometimes up to 41 °C)
shortness of breath and rapid breathing
disorder of cardio-vascular system- tachycardia, sometimes even with weakening of pulse filling and arrhythmia
Most characteristic disorders noted from the gastrointestinal tract and liver. Typically, in the early stages, the liver is enlarged and very painful. Enlargement of the organ is also noted radiographically. Palpation in the area of ​​the right hypochondrium usually causes anxiety in the animal. Due to the dysfunction of this organ, the penetration of bile pigments (bilirubin) into the blood is increased, as a result of which the mucous membranes of the mouth and eyes may acquire a jaundiced tint, and the excreted urine becomes dark brown. (The phenomena of jaundice are also associated with increased destruction of red blood cells during hemorrhagic exudations).
Due to impaired synthesis of albumin in the liver, animals in some cases may develop hypoproteinemic edema in the chest area and abdominal cavity(ascites). The development of ascites is also associated with impaired blood flow in the system portal vein(portal hypertension, see pathogenesis).
In acute liver failure, acidosis may develop. As a result of disturbances in methionine metabolism, the formation and increased secretion through the lungs with mercaptan. As a result, a specific sweetish-smelly odor of this product can sometimes be felt when the animal breathes.
At severe pain in the liver area the animal takes an unnatural sitting position with its front legs widely spaced.
The blood picture during acute course (or remission) is characterized by severe leukopenia. Eosinophils disappear in the blood, and neutrophils exhibit a nuclear shift to the left (i.e., the appearance of young, less perfect and active cells). The number of monocytes increases. According to some authors, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) accelerates to 20-30 mm. The resistance of erythrocyte membranes decreases. An increase in the level of bilirubin and transaminases is detected in the blood serum.
During the recovery period, on the contrary, as already noted, there is an increase in the number of leukocytes (up to 30-35 thousand) and including eosinophils (to normal). At the same time, the temperature drops and toxicosis decreases.
Characteristic clinical symptom Infectious hepatitis of dogs is caused by the appearance of unilateral or bilateral keratitis in the eyes, called “blue eye” in foreign literature. The symptom usually appears during recovery and, to a certain extent, may indicate a favorable course of the disease. It is believed that the mechanism of its appearance may be based on the processes of adsorption of immune complexes (virus-antibody) on the endothelium of the eye vessels. As a result, superficial inflammation of the cornea of ​​the eye develops, causing its surface to become rough with a white-bluish tint. Corneal clouding occurs very quickly (sometimes within a few hours). And it can disappear just as quickly.
With infectious hepatitis, dogs can develop nervous phenomena resembling symptoms of plague. They arise as a result of vascular pathologies (edema and hemorrhage) in the area of ​​the membranes of the spinal cord and brain (see pathogenesis). Impaired coordination of movement, convulsions, paralysis and paresis appear. Nervous phenomena in this disease are much milder than in the plague and can quickly pass without consequences.
In more chronic cases, a violation is noted digestive functions, and constant diarrhea and vomiting lead to exhaustion and dehydration of the body. This, in turn, entails disturbances in electrolyte metabolism (hypokalemia and hyponatremia). The animal is losing a lot of weight, weakening, and has difficulty getting up. When making sudden movements he sometimes groans. Dogs die, as a rule, while in a coma and not responding to external stimuli.
The chronic course of the disease can last from several weeks to 2-3 months. In this case, the disease becomes remitting in nature, and after a period of apparent recovery, a new remission of the disease begins. Pregnant females with chronic infectious hepatitis cannot bear offspring and either abort or give birth to non-viable puppies.
Thus, the characteristic clinical signs for this disease are dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract and especially the liver, with all the ensuing symptoms, leukopenia, sometimes fever and a number of other symptoms associated with multiple inflammatory reactions in various organs.

4. DIAGNOSTICS
In practical conditions, antemortem diagnosis of this disease is most often made on the basis of clinical signs and serological tests.
In order to detect antiviral antibodies in the blood serum of patients with infectious canine hepatitis, diffuse precipitation reactions (DPR) in agar gel, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), radioimmune and other tests have been developed. However, they do not always solve diagnostic problems in the early stages of the disease and cannot give differential results if the diseased animal has previously been vaccinated and has antibodies induced by the vaccine.
Detection of the viral antigen itself is more promising. The use of immunofluorescence reaction and enzyme immunoassay method for this purpose is described. In principle, it is possible to use other immunological tests for antigen detection. However, for practical use These tests should be highly sensitive, relatively simple and inexpensive. That's why wide application these methods have not yet been found. In some cases, epizootic data can be used for diagnosis.

5. TREATMENT
Treatment of infectious hepatitis in dogs is necessarily comprehensive and involves the use of medications that act on different mechanisms of the pathological process.
5.1. Etiotropic therapy.
5.1.1. Specific immunotherapy.
It is carried out through specific hyperimmune serums against infectious hepatitis of dogs. Often, specific antibodies to Ad can-1 are included in multivalent sera (for example, together with antibodies to plague virus, parvovirus, etc.).
The most active serum for treatment is from dogs that have recovered from the disease. Moreover, the use of serums is most effective in the early stages of disease development.
5.1.2. Nonspecific immunotherapy.
Since a significant number of lymphocytes and phagocytes are destroyed, and the functions of the rest can be suppressed, in this disease the use of immunostimulants that act on the cellular component of immunity (phagocytes and T-cells) is justified. The detoxifying function of phagocytic cells (primarily “professional” liver macrophages - Kupffer cells) is especially important. The drugs used must have low toxicity and can be used for quite a long time (2-3 weeks). Correct use of immunostimulants is the most effective method in the treatment of infectious hepatitis.
5.1.3. Antiviral chemotherapy.
Many chemicals can have an inhibitory effect on the processes of virus adsorption and reproduction. The most studied and therapeutically effective drugs in this regard are:
5-fluorodeoxyuridine or 5-bromodeoxyuridine,
6-azouridine,
vidarabine, adenine arabinoside and ribovirin.
5.2. Pathogenetic therapy.
5.2.1. Hepatoprotective therapy.
To protect the liver and normalize its function, sirepar, vitagepat, Liv-52, lipoic acid and other drugs similar action. To reduce pain and improve bile discharge, antispasmodics (no-spa, etc.), as well as silibinin, are indicated.
5.3. Vitamin therapy.
Vitamin therapy is a very important link in the complex treatment of infectious hepatitis. A complex of vitamins should be prescribed.
Vitamin C (recommended in a dose of 0.3-0.5 g for every 10 kg of weight) - to increase the body’s resistance, as well as normalize redox and glycogenetic processes in the liver.
Rutin - to reduce the porosity of blood vessels. It is usually prescribed in combination with vitamin C.
B vitamins (B2, B6 and especially B12) - to reduce the processes of fatty infiltration of the liver, increase its resistance and functional activity.
Folic acid - to regulate protein metabolism in the liver.
Vitamin K (vicasol) - to stimulate the processes of prothrombin synthesis in the liver, increase the coagulating properties of blood and prevent hemorrhage.
Vitamin B (tocopherol) - to maintain antioxidant processes in the body.
5.4. Symptomatic therapy.
In the chronic course of the disease, rehydration therapy is recommended to restore water-salt balance. Rehydration solutions containing K, Na, C1 and Ca ions are administered intravenously and drip. The following can be added to the solution:
glucose to maintain energy balance;
glutamic acid to bind ammonia, which penetrates the body and has pronounced toxic properties;
In case of severe liver dysfunction, as well as in the absence of temperature and other signs of fever, corticosteroids (mineralocorticosteroids or prednisolone and other glucocorticosteroids) may be used.
With the development of edema and ascites, diuretics are recommended.
To protect against the effects of secondary microflora, the use of antibiotics that affect intestinal group. Antibiotics can also be used wide range actions. During periods when antibiotics are not used, it is advisable to prescribe probiotics (bifidumbacterin, lactobacterin, etc.).
In case of severe disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, it is possible to carry out any antidiarrheal (astringent
substances, sorbents, antimicrobial drugs, etc.) or antiemetic (cerucal, etc.) therapy. In case of pathologies of cardiovascular, renal or other activities, therapeutic measures aimed at maintaining these organs.
Recommended for sick animals dietary food, pursuing a decrease in the amount of protein in the diet and an increase in easily digestible carbohydrates, vitamins and calcium ions.

6. PREVENTION
For active specific prevention of infectious canine hepatitis, various companies have proposed a number of vaccines, including associated ones, where the Ad can-1 virus is used together with pathogens of other diseases. Available vaccine preparations are created using correct use immunity is sufficiently strong, which allows the majority of dogs to be protected from infection.
In conditions of threat of infection, it is allowed to use specific antiserum in dogs that have not been vaccinated against infectious hepatitis. However, passive immune defense in this case, it can be easily broken through by a massive dose of the pathogen and lasts no more than 2-3 weeks.
Newborn puppies can acquire antibodies through the milk of mothers who have recovered from the disease. Colostral immunity in this case can last up to 1-1.5 months.
For the purpose of prevention, other general veterinary and sanitary measures can be carried out aimed at preventing contact with the source of infection, eliminating transmission factors, etc. However, these measures are effective only in conditions of group keeping of animals (pack nurseries, etc.).
Literature
1. Dyachenko Y. et al., Adenovirus, cell, organism. - Kyiv, Naukova Dumka, 1988
2. Harold S., Sinsbeig V. -The adenoviroses, N.York, 1983.
3. Hamilton D. et al. —Brit. Vet. J., 1966, 122, N2.
4. Swenson U., Persson R. - J. virol, 1984, 51, 3.
5. Appel M. et al. — Vet. Rec, 1973, 34.
6. Whetstone C. et al. - Am. J. Vet. Res., 1988, 49, N6
7. Curtis S. - Vet. Rec., 1983, 112.

Hepatitis in dogs is a very serious and dangerous disease. The sooner your pet is diagnosed, the greater the chance that the treatment will pass successfully. Today we will talk about the types, causes, symptoms and methods of treating hepatitis in dogs.

It can be acute or chronic. At the first sight, all the symptoms of hepatitis in a dog are bright and noticeable. With the second, the “clinic” is blurred and practically unnoticeable. Periodically, the chronic course of the disease worsens, and it is at this time that the signs of hepatitis in a dog become most noticeable.

Primary and secondary hepatitis still occurs. Primary is also called toxic. But the secondary one develops as a result of a bacterial, viral or fungal infection in the mustache.

Infection

Infection. The most common type of hepatitis in dogs is viral. More precisely, adenovirus leads to pathological changes in the liver. But if the owners take care of their pet on time (vaccinate according to age), then the risk of the dog contracting viral hepatitis (and, consequently, its death) is reduced to almost zero. However, in addition to adenovirus, there is great amount causative agents of infectious diseases (plague, piroplasmosis, leptospirosis and others).

Poisoning

A dog doesn’t have to eat something bad (spoiled food, moldy, or poisonous) to get poisoned. Medicines also destroy and lead to inflammation of the liver. Heavy metals, poisons of insects or snakes, dangerous plants, household chemicals and so on can lead to disruption of the work of this body.

Ways of infection with hepatitis

The saliva of an infected dog contains most of the infectious agent. Therefore, most often the transmission of hepatitis by dogs occurs through contact. An animal can also become ill by sniffing urine and excrement, and in them the virus remains active for up to a year. But the virus lives for a certain time in external environment. Therefore, the likelihood of infection through dishes, toys, etc. is also quite high.

Scenario of the course of the disease

For infectious hepatitis, the incubation period lasts no more than a week. Clinical manifestations may appear as early as the third day. The disease lasts about three weeks and if successful, the dog receives lifelong immunity.

The disease scenarios are as follows:

1. If the disease affects weak dog, the pet may die within a few hours. There is little chance of a favorable outcome in this case.
2. Acute hepatitis. An acute infection only takes a day to kill a dog. Especially if we're talking about about puppies. But most pets survive if the correct treatment is applied in a timely manner.
3. Chronic hepatitis in dogs. This form of the disease has less severe symptoms and a slower course. Death is rare.

Symptoms

Enlarged liver

In a healthy mustache, this organ does not protrude beyond the boundaries of the last rib (with right side). The inflamed liver extends beyond the costal arches. If the organ is slightly enlarged, it is not always possible to palpate it, but after an ultrasound, changes in size will be visible. Often the liver is so huge that upon palpation and percussion of the right hypochondrium area, the animal shows all signs of pain (whines, bends over, moves away from the doctor).

Liver dysfunction

All liver functions are impaired. An inflamed organ is not able to perform its functions fully. Therefore, knowing about them, you can suspect serious health problems in your mustache.

Yellowness

Yellowness of the sclera, visible mucous membranes and skin in a dog is a sure sign of hepatitis. In chronic hepatitis (or at the very beginning of the disease), yellowness is weakly expressed. In addition, it does not always indicate hepatitis. It could be cirrhosis of the dog's liver or a blockage. bile ducts stones, and other liver diseases.

Vomiting and diarrhea

Vomiting and diarrhea. They are light, with bile. Then blood appears in them, which is why their color turns brown.

Other symptoms

Other symptoms of hepatitis in dogs:

• Due to bile pigments, which are already in excess in the blood, urine becomes dark and brown. But feces, on the contrary, are almost colorless.
• Body temperature may rise.
• The heartbeat is arrhythmic.
• At the onset of the disease it is noted poor appetite, lethargy. It may suggest that the problem is with the liver. biochemical analysis blood.

Signs of viral hepatitis in a dog are as follows: temperature up to 41 degrees, vomiting and diarrhea. The tonsils are very inflamed, so much so that the dog cannot swallow anything normally. That’s why it’s hard for a mustache to turn his head. The neck may even swell. If you look at the eyes, you will notice clouding of the cornea (keratitis). Sometimes only on the eye, but more often on both eyes.

Diagnostics

Even an experienced veterinarian will not be able to immediately give an unambiguous analysis in the case of hepatitis. Research will be required full history disease, compiled from anamnestic data, examination of the animal and the results laboratory tests for blood research. Among other things, sometimes a biopsy is also performed.

The doctor needs to figure out whether the animal is suffering from any infectious disease that can show a similar clinical picture. X-rays are also used to analyze how much the liver is enlarged.

Treatment of a dog with hepatitis

How to treat hepatitis in a dog? The disease, you understand, is not simple and treatment must be comprehensive:

• Treatment for a dog with hepatitis begins with a diagnosis. In case of a viral disease, it is necessary to begin specific (hyperimmune serum) and symptomatic treatment as soon as possible.
• Hepatoprotectors are prescribed, which allow you to restore at least a little of the liver. Antibiotics will also be needed (but the name, dosage and duration of the course will be prescribed only by a veterinarian).

Droppers with glucose and ascorbic acid are also good, or saline solutions with Riboxin. But this is not the main therapy, but only supportive therapy to reduce the concentration of toxins and bile pigments in the blood, and also help liver cells regenerate faster.

Possible complications

An adult dog with hepatitis may experience the following complications:

• infertility, premature birth, fetal death before birth;
• increased susceptibility to pyelonephritis;
• some disturbance of digestive functions;
• acute failure of liver and kidney function;
• hepatic encephalopathy;
• development of glaucoma;
• cirrhosis of the liver.

Diet for a dog with hepatitis

A dog with hepatitis must special food. Keep proteins to a minimum, and eliminate fatty foods altogether (this is an additional blow to the liver). More carbohydrates, clean water (add a little glucose powder to it, maybe sugar, but just a little). If your dog is on dry food, then look for a specialized one (for dogs with a diseased liver or digestive system with a minimum of protein, without soy).

Prevention of hepatitis in dogs

Prevention of hepatitis in dogs includes vaccinations (starting from puppyhood, then annually “updating” vaccinations), avoiding contact with toxins/bad food. Do not self-medicate. Do not increase the dosage of the drug or the duration of treatment on your own (a blow to the liver, especially when it comes to antibiotics or “illicit drugs”). Many medications for dogs are completely prohibited. Visit your veterinarian. Donate blood biochemistry (at least once every six months).

To prevent hepatitis in dogs, you also need:

1. Carefully monitor your pet's contacts with other animals and control the food consumed per day. The same applies to drinking.
2. Timely disinfection of the place where the dog is kept and its care items.
3. Proper feeding and keeping four-legged pets.

Every dog ​​owner should remember that timely detected hepatitis can be cured faster and more reliably. Therefore, the first signs of an animal’s illness are a reason to visit a qualified specialist. There is no need to self-medicate under any circumstances. After all, a blurred clinical picture of the disease will complicate subsequent diagnosis, and will also contribute to the development of complications, which can lead the pet to fatal outcome.

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Infectious canine hepatitis is a disease in which inflammatory processes, as a result of which the function of this organ is disrupted and intoxication of the body develops. Very in rare cases the disease is asymptomatic. Hepatitis is usually accompanied by a set of symptoms that cause suffering to the animal. In its advanced state, the disease can be fatal.

There are two types of hepatitis: infectious and toxic.

Infectious hepatitis

Infectious or viral canine hepatitis is caused by adenovirus type I. Most often, infection occurs:

• in puppies up to one year;
• in dogs weakened after illnesses;
• those in close contact with sick animals.

Sometimes hepatitis in dogs can go away without symptoms or treatment, in very mild form and unnoticed by others. This applies to puppies under one year of age. After recovery, the body develops strong immunity. This is an exception to the rule, so if you notice a slight illness in your pet, you should not hope for self-healing. In most cases, without proper therapy, the disease is fatal or becomes chronic.

Dogs can become infected from each other through close contact, living in the same area or on walks.

Another way of infection is through food or water bowls, toys, or sniffing feces or dog marks.

Adenovirus remains resistant to the external environment for up to three months. This should be taken into account and not cited healthy dogs to the area where the sick dog was previously located.

Do not give in to the persuasion of owners who explain that their pet has already recovered. Their dog has developed immunity, but yours has not. You shouldn't take risks.

Toxic hepatitis

Your pet cannot get toxic hepatitis from a dog. It occurs due to poisoning of the body with medications or prolonged feeding of low-quality food.

In some cases, an animal that has suffered from piroplasmosis, leptospirosis, salmonellosis or other diseases may develop hepatitis. When treating with toxic medications, hepatoprotectors must be prescribed to support liver function and prevent its inflammation.

The danger of canine hepatitis for humans

The question of whether a person can become infected with hepatitis is asked by every owner whose pet is sick. The answer is clear - no. Viral hepatitis in dogs, with or without symptoms, is safe for humans due to its etiology. The human body is not susceptible to the viruses that cause it.

Symptoms

Incubation period for hepatitis it lasts from 2 to 7 days. Symptoms may appear sharply and suddenly:

• apathy, refusal to communicate;
• rapid heartbeat;
• temperature up to 40°C;
• diarrhea;
• nausea, vomiting;
• whitish feces;
• dark urine;
• mucous membranes with a tint of yellowness;
• the eyes are clouded, as if covered with a film. The effect is temporary and goes away after a while;
• enlarged tonsils, resulting in difficulty swallowing and intermittent breathing;
• swollen neck and head;
• an enlarged liver can be felt in the right hypochondrium; when you press it, the dog may moan, whine, and sometimes squeal;
• puppies may have convulsions and paralyze their limbs;
• posture - lying on the left side, does not lie on the right side due to painful sensations.

Symptoms may not all appear and may be mild. If you notice at least one of the signs, you need to consult a doctor. Treatment for early stage The disease usually passes successfully, and the dog develops immunity. Advanced disease - in best case scenario becomes chronic and, at worst, leads to the death of the pet.

You cannot self-medicate hepatitis, because the same symptoms occur in other diseases. Accurate diagnosis can be diagnosed only after blood, urine and ultrasound examination liver and other internal organs.

Forms of the disease

The disease can be acute or chronic. The acute form appears suddenly and is accompanied by many symptoms that are pronounced. The acute form is especially dangerous for puppies. You should contact the clinic immediately after the first signs appear. In some cases, the clock may count.

At chronic form exacerbations alternate with remission, symptoms are very mild. The pet gradually loses weight, the fur becomes dull, and the skin peels off. His behavior is more passive, although he does not refuse walks and games. Chronic hepatitis is a consequence of acute hepatitis, toxic or other infectious diseases. This form of hepatitis cannot be completely cured, but with maintenance therapy, liver function becomes stable, and there are almost no exacerbations.

Treatment

When choosing treatment methods, the causes of the disease and its type are determined. Prescribed drugs that remove toxins from the body, antibacterial agents, painkillers, immune support. To strengthen the liver and restore its functions, hepatoprotectors are prescribed.

The dog owner must carefully consider the pet’s diet during the treatment period. It's better to give food in small portions 3-4 times a day. Food should be warm. It is useful to give broth at one of the feedings: alternate chicken and fish. Fatty foods completely exclude. The best option during treatment - special balanced medicinal feed.

Make sure your dog drinks water. It is changed regularly, only filtered water is suitable.

During treatment, the dog should not be disturbed; most of the time the dog should be observed. bed rest. The bed must be arranged in a warm place.

Prevention

Hepatitis vaccination should be carried out annually. In some cases, it does not protect against infection, but the disease in vaccinated dogs is mild and has no consequences.

If you know that someone you know has recently had a sick pet, do not allow them to communicate for three months. Do not allow your dog to eat food or drink water from other people's bowls, and do not allow him to pick up food on the street.

Do not self-medicate for any disease. Do not feed cheap, expired or spoiled food.

If you already have dogs living in your house, then when you bring in a new pet that you know nothing about, keep it in quarantine or have it examined in a clinic. This will help avoid not only infection with hepatitis, but also other viral diseases.

Viral hepatitis in dogs (canine adenovirus, fulminant liver failure)– a serious contagious viral disease characterized by fever, catarrhal inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, mucous membranes of organs respiratory system, central nervous system, follicular conjunctivitis, development of destructive and degenerative processes in the liver. All dogs are susceptible to hepatitis age groups and breeds. Small puppies aged 1.5 to 3 months are most susceptible. In dogs over three years of age, viral hepatitis is diagnosed extremely rarely. Infectious hepatitis occurs in isolated cases and epizootic outbreaks.

Etiology of hepatitis in dogs

Viral hepatitis is caused by a DNA-containing adenovirus type CAV I 9 (Adenovirus caninae). All types of strains have almost the same low virulence. The causative agent of hepatitis is similar to the infectious laryngotracheitis virus. The hepatitis virus is resistant to high and low temperatures, ether, some acids, methanol, and chloroform.

Initially, the virus is localized in the endothelial cells of the larynx, pharynx, esophagus, and tonsils. Further reproduction of the virus occurs in the cellular structures of various internal organs, regional (submandibular, retropharyngeal) lymph nodes.

The greatest localization of the virus is noted in the cellular structures of the liver. Under the influence of exotoxins in tissues, the development of pathological inflammatory, degenerative, necrotic processes is noted, leading to disruption of the functioning of the liver, central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract, destruction renal vessels. Multiple foci of inflammation, hemorrhages, and perivascular edema occur. Toxins and poisons secreted by the adenovirus have a destructive effect on the vascular endothelium. Their insight increases.

In nature, wild animals are the reservoir of the virus. Infection occurs through contact of infected animals with healthy individuals. Virus carriers and animals that have recovered from hepatitis release adenoviruses into the external environment through urine, feces, conjunctival secretions, and nasal discharge.

Infection with hepatitis occurs through nutritional means, through the consumption of water and feed contaminated with the virus. The risk group includes weakened animals with a decrease in the body's resistance, as well as dogs kept in kennels under unfavorable conditions. Infection can occur through equipment, ammunition, bedding that was used to care for sick or recovered animals, special clothing, and hygiene items.

Contribute to the development of hepatitis unfavourable conditions content, poor-quality, unbalanced diet, hypothermia, insufficient concentration of vitamins and minerals in the feed, the presence accompanying pathologies and diseases.

Symptoms of viral hepatitis in dogs

From the moment of infection until the first symptoms of hepatitis appear, it can take five to ten days. The disease occurs in fulminant, acute, subacute, latent (latent) forms. A more distinct clinical picture is observed in young animals up to one year old.

In the acute form, dogs are diagnosed with:

temperature increase;

general depression, decreased physical activity;

gastroenteritis;

profuse diarrhea;

yellowness of the mucous membranes and whites of the eyes;

frequent urge to urination, dark color urine;

attacks of nausea, vomiting;

weight loss;

enlargement, hemorrhage of lymph nodes;

disturbance of electrolyte metabolism and metabolic processes;

V stool blood clots and mucus are noted;

unilateral, bilateral keratitis;

enlarged, painful lymph nodes, tonsillitis.

When palpating the dog's abdominal cavity, pain and discomfort are noted, especially in the liver area. Due to pain, dogs often sit in an unusual position, with their forelimbs spread wide apart. Animals may have difficulty breathing, shortness of breath is noted, and there may be problems in the functioning of the central nervous system and cardiovascular system, namely: rapid pulse, arrhythmia. Because of long term impairment albumin synthesis in the liver, hypoproteinemic edema (ascites) is noted in the peritoneal area.

As hepatitis progresses in dogs, severe itching, which leads to scratching on the body. Mucous, unpainted areas skin acquire a jaundiced color. Puppies may have seizures muscle spasms, weakness of the limbs, loss of coordination of movement. Spontaneous abortions and the birth of weak, non-viable offspring are possible in pregnant bitches.

The manifestation of clinical signs depends on the form and stage of hepatitis. In subacute, chronic cases, the clinical picture is less pronounced. The chronic form is diagnosed in adult dogs. Disturbances in the functioning of organs are noted digestive system, diarrhea, periodic fever, anemia of the mucous membranes, swelling subcutaneous tissue, enlargement, hemorrhage of lymph nodes.

The latent form occurs without obvious characteristic features. There may be a deterioration in appetite, a slight increase in temperature, attacks of vomiting, and dyspepsia. Various factors contribute to the manifestation of symptoms unfavorable factors. In acute, hyperacute hepatitis, mortality in puppies is 90-100%.

TO possible complications include: acute failure liver, glaucoma, pyelonephritis.

Diagnosis of hepatitis in dogs

Given the similarity of symptoms with others infectious diseases, for example, with parvovirus enteritis, toxoplasmosis, canine distemper, leptospirosis, in mandatory carry out differential diagnosis. also in veterinary clinics prescribe abdominal radiography, ultrasound of the peritoneal organs, perform biochemical, bacteriological, serological studies blood, test analyzes (RIF, RN). According to the results diagnostic studies veterinary specialists prescribe appropriate treatment.

Treatment of hepatitis in dogs

Complex treatment includes the use of symptomatic, antihistamine, antiviral drugs, broad-spectrum antibiotics of the cephalosporin and penicillin series (ampiox, caricef, fortum, ampicillin). Dogs are prescribed symptomatic, pathogenetic, etiotropic therapy, antiviral chemotherapy, specific immunotherapy.

To normalize liver function, dogs are additionally prescribed decoctions and tinctures based on medicinal herbs - decoctions of chamomile, St. John's wort, coltsfoot, bearberry, yarrow, string, and hepatoprotectors are prescribed.

Animals are prescribed specific immunotherapy through the use of hyperimmune sera. To normalize the microflora, dogs are given medications containing lactobacilli and given cleansing and nutritional enemas.

For elimination pain symptoms prescribe analgesics, sedatives medications. To strengthen, activate protective forces dogs are prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements complex preparations, ascorbic acid, drugs of group B. Vitamin preparations administered intramuscularly, subcutaneously. Among the multivitamins prescribed are Undevit, Hexavit, Nutrisan, Revit.

To eliminate signs of intoxication, animals are administered intravenously saline solutions– Ringer's solution, Ringer-Locke, trisol, isotonic sodium chlorine, other antitoxic drugs. During treatment, dogs are prescribed therapeutic diet. excluded from the diet fatty foods. If possible, dogs are prescribed nutritional feeding.

Prevention of hepatitis in dogs

The main prevention lies in timely vaccination. Puppies can be vaccinated from 6-8 weeks. Mono- or polyvaccines are used. Repeated vaccination is carried out when the dog turns one year old. They pay attention to the diet, monitor the condition of the dog, carry out sanitary and hygienic measures in a timely manner, and adhere to the established veterinarian vaccination schedules. If the first, even minor, symptoms appear, you should immediately show the dog to a veterinarian.

Hepatitis in dogs is infection transmitted from animal to animal. Let us immediately make a reservation that the adenovirus in dogs has nothing in common with human hepatitis, so an infected dog does not pose a danger to people. But for the animal itself, especially under the age of one year, the virus poses a huge danger.

Causes and types of hepatitis in dogs

Infectious hepatitis, which is caused by one of the forms of adenovirus, is not the only form of this disease, although it is the most common. Liver damage that gives symptoms of hepatitis is also caused by:

1. toxic hepatitis. It is most often caused by long-term use toxic drugs, but liver damage can be caused by the accumulation of metals in the body, poisoning by toxins. In order to avoid liver damage during a course of serious treatment, it is necessary to simultaneously take medications that support the liver. Baking can also cause damage. Some foods contain large amounts harmful substances, which can accumulate in the body;
2. Infectious hepatitis (Rubart's disease) is caused by adenovirus type I, this is the most common form of this disease.

If the animal does not receive timely treatment, acute hepatitis can become chronic, causing constant suffering to the animal. Chronic hepatitis can last a lifetime, in which case the dog will need ongoing maintenance treatment. With a favorable outcome, the disease progresses to a non-acute chronic form, although in order to stabilize the dog’s condition, hospital treatment may be required. Until the end of its life, the animal must be under the supervision of a doctor and undergo periodic examinations.

Symptoms

The first thing that should alert the owner is a sudden change in the pet’s behavior. The dog becomes lethargic and loses interest in playing and eating. In any case, this is a reason to worry and contact a veterinarian.

Many dogs experience hepatitis before the age of one year in a mild form, almost unnoticed by the owner, therefore 75% of adult animals have acquired immunity to viral hepatitis. But the remaining animals suffer from hepatitis very hard, and puppies up to a year old often die from this disease. The incubation period lasts from 2 to 8 days; as viral or other hepatitis develops, it leads to the appearance of symptoms that clearly indicate liver damage:

1. The tonsils may be enlarged and the neck and head may swell. It becomes difficult for the dog to swallow, as if he is constantly choking on food. Unlike plague, hepatitis does not affect the lungs, but breathing often becomes irregular;
2. heartbeat becomes intermittent and quickens;
3. the temperature rises sharply to 40.3 degrees, even with a high temperature it can remain active, but within 1-2 days it will die from infection;
4. In a third of cases, a whitish film appears on one or both eyes, which disappears after a few days;
5. the liver increases in size;
6. classic sign of hepatitis - yellow mucous membranes and whites of the eyes;
7. stool becomes whitish in color;
8. dark urine;
9. diarrhea, vomiting;
10. Paralysis of limbs and convulsions occur in puppies.

A blood test is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Only in this case can you accurately distinguish hepatitis from the list of diagnoses with similar characteristics: plague, lung infections and other diseases.

In the acute form, the signs of the disease are more pronounced, the animal becomes apathetic and lethargic. In the chronic form, the symptoms are less noticeable; with proper supportive treatment, the dog can lead a normal life.

Routes of infection and disease progression scenarios

Most infectious agents are found in the saliva of an infected dog, so hepatitis is transmitted through contact, sniffing feces and urine, in which the virus persists for a year even in cured animals. But for some time the virus can remain active in the external environment, so the disease is transmitted through shared toys, bowls and in common areas of several animals.

The incubation period of infectious hepatitis is 2-8 days. The disease usually lasts up to three weeks, in most cases the acute phase passes in 2-4 days; with a favorable outcome, the animal develops immunity for life.

The disease can develop in several scenarios:

• if a weakened animal is infected, liver damage can lead to death within a few hours. In this case, it is most often not possible to save the animal;
• acute hepatitis - a life-threatening condition develops extremely quickly; a dog, especially if it is a puppy, can die within 1-3 days from acute infection. But most animals proper treatment suffer from acute hepatitis
• chronic hepatitis is a form of the disease with less severe symptoms and slow progression, rarely leading to death.

Treatment

The optimal course of therapy depends on the form of hepatitis and how the disease progresses.

1. infectious hepatitis is treated with injections of polyvalent serum. To support the body, immunomodulators (Gamavit, Vitan and others) and restorative drugs (Essentiale, Sirepar) are also prescribed. A course of glucose injections is often prescribed to quickly remove toxins and support the body. Immunity is also supported by vitamins and improved nutrition. Before treatment, the animal’s diet should be enriched as much as possible;
2. To cleanse the body of toxins, gastric lavage is prescribed (if the cause is food poisoning) and a set of supportive measures similar to the treatment of infectious hepatitis. With timely initiation of treatment, in most cases it is possible to successfully get rid of the consequences of intoxication.

All fatty foods and all foods from the human table should definitely be excluded from the dog’s diet during treatment. The ideal option is complete food; this can make the dog’s food much more expensive, but will protect the liver from further damage. During therapy, the diet can be supplemented with fish and chicken broths. Balanced diet– the main liver support measure for all liver diseases, rely only on drug treatment not worth it.

If the animal is suffering chronic hepatitis, regular walks and moderate physical activity. But until the end of the acute phase of the disease, bed rest is indicated.

Do I need to get vaccinated against hepatitis?

It is included in many polyvaccines, so most dogs receive immunity from this disease after routine vaccinations at 2-3 months. Before immunity is developed, it is not recommended to take your dog outside; the period after vaccination, during which walking is not recommended, varies for different vaccines.

Hepatitis is a potentially fatal disease for a puppy, so if the animal is in constant contact with other dogs, it is better to get vaccinated. A dog that has had hepatitis can be a carrier of the infection for a year, so it is very difficult to completely eliminate the risk of a puppy coming into contact with the infection.

You can protect your animal from other forms of hepatitis by providing a balanced diet, excluding low-quality feed from the diet and not overloading the body with strong intakes. medicines. If it is necessary to carry out a long and severe treatment from another disease, it must be monitored by an experienced veterinarian.

Hepatitis in dogs is very insidious disease, most animals tolerate it relatively easily. But there is always a risk that your pet will fall into the 25% for whom this disease can be fatal, so if the dog is constantly in contact with its own kind, it is better to get a routine vaccination against hepatitis before starting walks and protect yourself and your pet from unnecessary risk.