Bacterial Infection (Campylobacteriosis) in Dogs
Key takeaways
Campylobacteriosis is a common gastrointestinal bacterial infection in dogs caused by Campylobacter bacteria.
- In most cases, campylobacteriosis is not an emergency, as most infected dogs do not show symptoms
- In symptomatic cases, the most common clinical sign is diarrhea
- Other symptoms can include vomiting, fever, abdominal cramping, and lethargy
- While not a medical emergency, medical attention is recommended as diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing zoonotic transmission
- Diagnosis is based on blood tests and fecal analysis
- Most affected animals are able to recover without medical treatment; in severe cases, treatment options include supportive care and antibiotic therapy
- The prognosis of campylobacteriosis is good
- Campylobacteriosis is among the most common causes of gastroenteritis in humans, and spread from dogs to humans is possible
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A closer look: Bacterial Infection (Campylobacteriosis) in Dogs
The Campylobacter bacteria is commonly found in infected animals’ intestines and can be transmitted via:
- Contaminated food or water
- Contact with infected feces
- Ingesting raw poultry or other white meats
Campylobacteriosis is common in dogs, however developing symptoms is rare. Campylobacteriosis is not a medical emergency, as the majority of affected dogs are able to recover without medical treatment. However, medical attention is advised as frequent diarrhea can be a symptom of more severe conditions that require veterinary care.
While not life-threatening, diagnosis and treatment are essential as campylobacteriosis can infect humans, and cohabitation with infected animals increases the chances of dog-to-human transition.
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Risk factors
Possible causes
Campylobacteriosis is caused by Campylobacter, a group of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of a number of animals and is primarily transmitted through ingestion of contaminated water, meat, or feces.
Main symptoms
The main symptom of campylobacteriosis in dogs is diarrhea, which may contain blood or mucus.
On rare occasions, diarrhea becomes chronic, requiring treatment.
Testing and diagnosis
Diagnosing campylobacteriosis is challenging, as symptoms of campylobacteriosis are similar to a number of different conditions. Additionally, many dogs carry Campylobacter in their feces, and it is not associated with symptoms, so the presence of the bacteria does not necessarily confirm the cause of diarrhea.
Routine diagnostics include:
- Physical examination
- Feces analysis
- Bloodwork
- Fecal culture
Steps to Recovery
Most cases of campylobacteriosis are able to recover without treatment. In severe cases, treatment options include:
- Antibiotic treatment
- Antimicrobials
- Dietary changes to rest the intestines
- Supportive care
In most cases, dogs do not develop symptoms of campylobacteriosis, and when they do, symptoms tend to resolve without medical attention. In cases requiring treatment, the prognosis is good with appropriate management.
Prevention
Campylobacteriosis is contagious to other dogs, animals, and humans. It is primarily spread through contact with the feces of an infected animal.
Prevention strategies include:
- Avoiding contact between infected and non-infected animals
- Training animals not to lick faces, especially childrens’
- Frequent washing of the animal's bedding
- Washing hands after playing with pets
Is Bacterial Infection (Campylobacteriosis) in Dogs common?
Campylobacteriosis is a common condition in dogs, however developing symptoms is rare.
Typical Treatment
- Antibiotic treatment
- Antimicrobials
- Supportive care
