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.

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.

The main symptom of campylobacteriosis in dogs is diarrhea, which may contain blood or mucus.

On rare occasions, diarrhea becomes chronic, requiring treatment.

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

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.

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

Campylobacteriosis is a common condition in dogs, however developing symptoms is rare.

• Antibiotic treatment
• Antimicrobials
• Supportive care