Aujeszky's Disease in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Aujeszky's disease, also known as pseudorage, is a serious and usually fatal viral infection in dogs. This disease, caused by the herpesvirus Suis 1 (SHV-1), affects not only dogs but also other carnivores and ruminants. In this article, we will give you a comprehensive overview of Aujeszky's disease, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and prevention.

What is Aujeszky's disease in dogs?

Aujeszky's disease in dogs is a viral infection that is almost always fatal. The virus primarily affects pigs, but dogs can become infected by eating raw pork. The disease is widespread worldwide, especially in regions with intensive pig farming.

Origin and distribution of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

The Aujeszky virus belongs to the herpesvirus family and remains in the host's body for life after infection. Pigs in particular are carriers of this virus and can reactivate and spread it under stressful conditions.

Routes of infection of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Dogs usually become infected by eating infected raw pork. Less commonly, infection can occur through the bite of an infected pig. Transmission from dog to dog is not possible.

Aujeszky's disease in dogs: symptoms in detail

Aujeszky's disease is a serious, usually fatal viral infection in dogs. Its symptoms are varied and develop rapidly. In this section, we will go into detail about the various symptoms that can be observed in affected dogs.

Early symptoms of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Restlessness and aggressiveness

One of the first signs of Aujeszky's disease is a change in dog behavior. Affected animals often appear restless and show unusual aggressiveness. These behavioral changes can occur suddenly and should be taken seriously.

General fatigue

In addition to restlessness, pronounced fatigue and tiredness can also be observed. Dogs who are normally active and playful suddenly appear slack and uninterested in their surroundings.

Progressive symptoms of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Vomiting and diarrhea

As the disease progresses, gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea often occur. These symptoms contribute to the weakening of the animal and can lead to dehydration, which further worsens the dog's condition.

Profuse salivation

Another characteristic symptom is excessive salivation. This increased salivation may be an indication of neurological impairment caused by the virus.

Rapid pulse and fever

Many dogs also exhibit an increased heart rate and, in some cases, fever. These symptoms are signs that the dog's immune system is fighting the virus.

Characteristic signs of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Severe itching

A particularly noticeable symptom of Aujeszky's disease is intense itching, particularly of the ears and nose. This itching can be so severe that dogs try to scratch themselves constantly, which can lead to skin injuries.

Neurological disorders

In the advanced stages of the disease, severe neurological symptoms often occur. This includes:

• Paralysis : Affected dogs can develop paralysis of the limbs, which severely limits their ability to move.
• Seizures : Seizures are also a common symptom indicating severe impairment of the nervous system.

Rapid onset of death

Unfortunately, Aujeszky's disease progresses very quickly. Affected dogs usually die within 48 hours of the first symptoms appearing. This highlights the urgency of rapid veterinary examination and intervention.

Summary of symptoms of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Here is a summary of the main symptoms of Aujeszky's disease in dogs:

• Restlessness and aggressiveness
• Weakness and weakness
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Profuse salivation
• Rapid pulse and fever
• Intense itching of ears and nose
• Neurological disorders such as paralysis and convulsions

These symptoms demonstrate how serious Aujeszky's disease is and the importance of seeking immediate veterinary attention if infection is suspected.

Aujeszky's disease is a serious threat to dogs. Its symptoms are varied and develop rapidly, requiring a rapid response. Early recognition of symptoms and immediate veterinary care are crucial to minimize the animal's suffering and prevent further infection.

Diagnosis of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Diagnosis of Aujeszky's disease in dogs is a multifaceted process that involves several diagnostic procedures. Since the symptoms of Aujeszky's disease are non-specific and can also occur with other diseases, an accurate diagnosis is crucial to ensure correct treatment.

Clinical examination

The first step in diagnosing Aujeszky's disease is a thorough clinical examination by the veterinarian . The dog's health is checked and specific symptoms such as behavioral changes, itching, neurological disorders and other signs are recorded. A detailed medical history, including feeding habits and possible contact with wild boar or raw pork, is also essential.

Differential diagnosis

Due to the similarity of symptoms to other diseases such as rabies, distemper or bacterial infections, the veterinarian carry out a differential diagnosis. This means that other possible causes of the symptoms must be systematically ruled out. These include, among others:

• Rabies: The symptoms of rabies closely resemble those of Aujeszky's disease, particularly the neurological disorders and behavioral changes. A rabies test is therefore mandatory.
• Distemper: Distemper can also cause neurological symptoms and systemic disorders. A test for the distemper virus may be necessary.
• Poisonings: Certain poisonings can cause similar symptoms, so toxicology tests may be performed.
• Other Infections: Bacterial and fungal infections that cause neurological symptoms must also be ruled out.

Laboratory diagnostics

Laboratory diagnostics play a central role in confirming Aujeszky's disease. The most important laboratory tests include:

• Blood tests: Blood samples can be tested for specific antibodies against the herpes virus Suis 1 (SHV-1). An increased antibody level can indicate an infection.
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): PCR is a molecular biological method that detects the genetic material of the virus. This method is very specific and can directly confirm the presence of the virus.
• Virus isolation: In some cases, the pathogen can be identified by isolating and culturing the virus from body fluids or tissue samples.

Imaging procedures

Imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound or MRI can be used to assist in the diagnosis to make neurological damage or other changes in the dog's body visible.

Cerebrospinal fluid examination

An examination of the spinal fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) may be performed to identify inflammatory processes in the central nervous system. This is particularly helpful in differentiating between different neurological diseases.

Summary of diagnostic methods for Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Diagnosis of Aujeszky's disease requires a combination of clinical examination, differential diagnosis, laboratory tests and, if necessary, imaging techniques. Only through comprehensive and thorough diagnostics can Aujeszky's disease be correctly identified and differentiated from other diseases. This enables targeted treatment and helps to improve the affected dog's well-being.

Transmission routes of Aujezsky's disease in dogs

Can Aujeszky's disease in dogs be transmitted to humans?

Aujeszky's disease, also known as pseudorage, is a serious viral infection that primarily affects pigs, but can also occur in dogs and other animals. A frequently asked question is whether this disease can also be transmitted to humans. In this article we clarify this important question and provide an overview of the possible risks.

Transmissibility of Aujeszky's disease in dogs to humans

No danger to humans

The good news is that Aujeszky's disease poses no threat to humans. The herpesvirus Suis 1 (SHV-1), which causes Aujeszky's disease, is not zoonotic. This means that this virus cannot be transmitted to humans. So people cannot become infected with Aujeszky's disease either through contact with infected animals or through eating infected meat.

Protective measures for animal owners

Although the virus is harmless to humans, pet owners should still take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease among animals. In particular, dogs should never be given raw pork as this poses the main risk of infection.

Scientific studies on the transmissibility of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Scientific studies and veterinary research have confirmed that the Suis 1 herpes virus does not pose a threat to humans. All known cases and infections exclusively affect animals, especially pigs, dogs, cats and other carnivores and ruminants.

Aujeszky's disease is a serious threat to many animal species, but poses no danger to humans. The Suis 1 herpes virus cannot be transmitted to humans, so pet owners and veterinarians can have peace of mind. However, it remains important to take measures to prevent the spread of the disease among animals and to seek immediate veterinary treatment for affected animals.

Prevention and treatment of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Aujeszky's disease in dogs is a serious and usually fatal viral infection that primarily affects pigs, but also dogs and other animals. Since there is no specific cure for this disease, the focus is on prevention and symptomatic treatment. In this section we provide you with detailed information about preventive measures and symptomatic treatment options.

Prevention of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Avoiding raw pork

The most important step in preventing Aujeszky's disease in dogs is to avoid feeding raw pork to dogs. Since the virus is primarily transmitted through infected meat, cooking the pork can kill the virus and thus prevent infection.

Strict hygiene measures

Strict hygiene measures should be observed in farms that keep pigs to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of the stables as well as the control and treatment of infected animals.

Stress reduction in pigs

Since stress can trigger reactivation of the herpes virus Suis 1 in the body of infected pigs, it is important to take stress-reducing measures. This can be achieved through species-appropriate housing, sufficient space and appropriate feeding.

Vaccination of pigs

In some regions, pigs are vaccinated against Aujeszky virus to control the spread of the disease. These vaccinations can help prevent outbreaks and reduce infection rates.

Control and reporting of cases of illness

Aujeszky's disease is notifiable in many countries. This means that any suspected case of illness must be reported to the relevant authorities. This measure helps monitor and control the spread of the disease.

Treatment options for Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Symptomatic treatment

Because there is no specific antiviral treatment for Aujeszky's disease, therapy focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the affected dog.

Supporting general health

• Hydration : If symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea occur, it is important to keep the dog adequately hydrated to avoid dehydration.
• Diet : An easily digestible diet can help relieve the strain on the weakened gastrointestinal tract.

Pain and itching relief

• Medication : Painkillers and medications for severe itching can be administered to improve the dog's well-being.
• Care measures : Applying soothing ointments can help relieve itching and prevent skin injuries.

Neurological support

• Antispasmodics : For neurological symptoms such as convulsions, special antispasmodic medications can be used.
• Physical therapy : In some cases, physical therapy can help support the dog's mobility and treat paralysis.

Palliative care

Since Aujeszky's disease is often fatal, palliative care may be necessary to ensure that the dog has as pain-free and comfortable a life as possible in its final days. This includes intensive care and the administration of medication to relieve pain and calm you down.

Prevention of Aujeszky's disease is the key to avoiding this deadly infection. By avoiding raw pork, strict hygiene measures and controlling cases of illness, the risk of infection can be significantly reduced. Although there is no cure for Aujeszky's disease, symptomatic treatment can ease the affected dog's suffering and improve its quality of life.

Frequently asked questions about Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Summary of Aujeszky's disease in dogs

Aujeszky's disease, also known as pseudorage, is a serious viral infection that affects dogs and other animals. This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the disease, its causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment options, and differential diagnosis.

Aujeszky's disease is an infection caused by the herpesvirus Suis 1 (SHV-1). The term "Aujeszky's disease" describes an acute, usually fatal disease that primarily affects pigs, but also dogs, cats and other carnivores. Dogs mainly become infected by eating raw pork that is contaminated with the virus. The term "Aujeszky's disease" is often used interchangeably with "pseudowia", emphasizing the severity and neurological symptoms of the disease.

The symptoms of Aujeszky's disease in dogs are varied and can occur acutely. The first signs include behavioral changes such as restlessness and aggressiveness. Other symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, a rapid pulse and fever. A particularly noticeable symptom of Aujeszky's disease is severe itching, especially of the ears and nose. In advanced stages, neurological disorders such as paralysis and convulsions occur. The term "Aujeszky's disease" summarizes all of these symptoms under a unified diagnosis.

Prevention of Aujeszky's disease focuses on avoiding contact with infected meat. Dogs should not be given raw pork because sufficient heating kills the virus. Strict hygiene measures in pig farms and vaccination of pigs are other important prevention strategies. The term "Aujeszky's disease" highlights the importance of these measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for Aujeszky's disease. Therapy therefore focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the affected dog. Painkillers and medication for the severe itching can be given, as well as fluids and an easily digestible diet. In severe cases, palliative care may be required to ease the animal's suffering. The term "Aujeszky's disease" is closely linked to these treatment strategies that aim to improve the dog's well-being.

The differential diagnosis of Aujeszky's disease is complex because the symptoms are similar to many other diseases. Rabies, distemper, epilepsy, poisoning, bacterial and fungal infections and parasitic diseases must be ruled out. Blood tests, imaging tests, CSF tests and PCR tests are crucial to make an accurate diagnosis. The term "Aujeszky's disease" plays a central role in veterinary diagnostics to distinguish this dangerous disease from others.

Aujeszky's disease in dogs is a serious and usually fatal viral infection caused by the Suis 1 herpesvirus. The term "Aujeszky's disease" describes a disease that primarily affects pigs, dogs and other carnivores. Prevention is crucial and focuses on avoiding contact with raw pork. Although there is no specific cure, symptomatic treatments can ease the suffering of affected animals. Differential diagnosis is complex and requires a thorough examination to exclude other similar diseases. The term "Aujeszky's disease in dogs" is therefore of great importance for pet owners and veterinarians in order to protect the health and well-being of animals.

Further information: https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-022-03138-2