Liver Infection in Dogs

Liver infections in dogs can lead to death.

The canine liver is responsible for removing toxins from the blood. Left untreated, liver infections can lead to acute liver failure and eventually death. Knowing the two primary pathogens responsible for liver infections can help to prevent the disease from spreading.

Infectious Canine Hepatitis

According to the Baker Institute for Animal Health, infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) is caused by canine adenovirus type-1 (CAV-1). This disease is spread through viral particles present in an infected animal's urine. These particles are then inhaled or enter the mouth of another dog, spreading the infection.
General symptoms for ICH are similar to symptoms for other ailments, but can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, swollen abdomen, jaundice and light-colored stools. A low white blood cell count, known as leukopenia, is a characteristic early symptom of ICH. In later stages of the disease, the dog's corneas might appear cloudy or bluish.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that is present in warmer climates. Transmission occurs from one animal to another through direct contact, bites or from eating infected meat. The disease can also be passed through infected urine, food, soil, water or bedding. The bacteria responsible for leptospirosis also thrive in stagnant or slow-moving water.
Dogs suffering from leptospirosis might exhibit loss of appetite, fever, muscle pain, stiffness, shivering, progressive weakness and depression. Coughing and difficulty breathing are other common symptoms.

Diagnosis

Examination of the dog by a veterinarian is critical if a liver infection is suspected. Along with a physical examination, diagnostic tests will aid in determining what type of infection is present in the dog. Blood panels and urinalysis detect viral and bacterial antibodies and the ELISA test can detect viral particles in stool samples.

Treatment Options

ICH is preventable by administering a vaccine that protects against CAV-1 or CAV-2. Give vaccinations as early as possible. There is no known treatment for ICH, so avoidance of areas of potential contamination until vaccinations are complete is important.
Leptospirosis is also preventable through vaccinations. Treatment of the infection includes antibiotics. If the infection is severe and has damaged other organs, additional treatment might be necessary to restore optimal functioning to those organs.

Considerations

Left untreated, liver infections can lead to liver failure. Treatment for this late-stage condition is hospitalization. Fluids, electrolytes, colloid replacement and oxygen supplementation are essential while the liver is given the opportunity to regenerate.

References

• Baker Institute: An Overview of Infectious Canine Hepatitis
• Baker Institute: An Overview of Leptospirosis
• Pet MD: Acute Liver Failure in Dogs