Introduction
Helicobacter is the name of a genus of spiral shaped bacteria. This type of bacteria is especially unique because it is able to live within the stomach. Most types of bacteria are immediately killed when they enter the acidic environment of the stomach, but the Helicobacter is able to survive by producing its own protective coating.
Once the Helicobacter is in the stomach, the spiral shape of the bacteria allows it to bore into the mucous layer of the stomach; in this layer, the bacteria ensure their safety from the stomach’s acidic environment. Unfortunately, the tendency of the bacteria to bore into the layers of the stomach, and lower GI tract, can irritate and inflame these tissues.
Helicobacter Infection in Dogs
Depending on the type of Helicobacter Infection, and how deeply the infection penetrates the layer of the dog's stomach, it can cause dogs to experience pain, nausea, and/or vomiting.
There is a lot that is still not understood about Helicobacter infection. Various treatments are still being experimented with, and it is still not known how the infection primarily affects dogs. It is believed that some dogs carry the bacteria without exhibiting any other symptoms; while other dogs may carry the bacteria and develop gastritis. Whether or not these dogs develop symptoms from the infection due to another underlying disease is still not understood. There are still questions as to whether a Helicobacter infection in dogs can result in food allergies, ulcers, or tumor or extra tissue growth in the stomach and intestines.