Viruses, illnesses, and infections from your dog can spread quickly to others. Our Hattiesburg veterinarians explain three contagious diseases and what to do if you suspect your pet is suffering from one.
What do my dog's symptoms mean?
It is critical for dog owners to understand that some of the most common illnesses are also the most contagious. Our Hattiesburg vets discuss three very common and highly contagious ailments — and what you should do if your dog exhibits symptoms.
Parvovirus
Parvovirus is extremely contagious and often fatal. It's a viral disease that is transmitted through contact with feces from infected dogs.
Bloody diarrhea, loss of appetite, frequent severe vomiting, dehydration, and lethargic behavior are all symptoms of parvovirus. The virus can survive for months on inanimate objects and can spread to humans as well.
The best way to combat a potential parvovirus infection is through regular vaccination, particularly when a dog is still a puppy. Parvovirus currently can't be killed by available drugs.
Should your dog display any of these symptoms, please contact your vet immediately.
Kennel Cough
Does it sound like your dog is honking while coughing? That could be a sign of kennel cough, which is a form of bronchitis.
Like a chest cold for humans, symptoms can include a dry or hacking cough, sometimes with accompanying phlegm or nasal discharge. Kennel cough can also lead to fever and, in serious cases, pneumonia.
While kennel cough usually resolves on its own, it is highly contagious to other dogs with whom your pet may come into contact. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, immediately isolate him or her from other animals and contact your veterinarian.
Ringworm
Despite the name, ringworm isn't a parasite like a heartworm or a tapeworm It's actually a highly contagious fungus that affects your dog's skin and spreads quickly in areas with lots of dogs closely together.
Some of the most common symptoms of ringworm infection are lesions and patchy, red spots in your dog's coat. However, a dog can also carry ringworm with no visible symptoms at all.
Ringworm does not only affect pets; it can also spread to humans. If you suspect your dog has a skin problem, take him or her to the vet for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.