Introduction
Canine herpesvirus, or CHV, is an infection caused by the herpes virus. The effects of this virus are particularly harmful to puppies; adult dogs are affected by the virus as well. Puppies are usually infected with the virus through their mother; during the birthing process the puppies are exposed to the virus in the birth canal or by coming into contact with the mother’s infected saliva or nasal secretions. Adult dogs are infected with the virus through sexual contact with another infected dog.
Symptoms of CHV in Young Puppies
Puppies that are infected with CHV generally begin to show symptoms approximately four to six days after they are born. Symptoms of the CHV virus in puppies include continual crying, loss of their suckling reflex and the inability to nurse, yellow soft feces, discharge from the nose, nosebleeds, abdominal rash, and abdominal pain. Sadly, most puppies that begin to display these symptoms die approximately 48 hours after the symptoms begin. In some cases puppies can develop a resistance to CHV; these puppies may show little to no signs of the virus, and they are normally resistant to the virus after they are two weeks old. It is possible for puppies in the same litter to react differently to the virus.
Symptoms of CHV in Adult Dogs
Adult dogs, both male and female, that are infected by CHV will generally display symptoms around their reproductive organs. Female dogs can develop vaginitis, discharge around the vagina is often present, and sometimes pox like sores appear around the vaginal area; spontaneous abortions may occur or there may be difficulties with becoming pregnant. Male dogs that are infected by the CHV virus may have discharge around the penis, pox like sores around the base of the penis, and sores on the penis itself. In some cases adult dogs with CHV develop upper respiratory problems. There are some dogs that carry CHV without displaying any symptoms at all.
There is no cure for CHV, but some treatments are available. If you notice any of these symptoms take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Spaying and neutering infected animals is highly recommended.