Dog parks can be so much fun. But there’s one thing you should know about them: dogs can transmit and catch diseases. It’s true; while parks offer great socialization opportunities, the risk of disease transmission among dogs is high. Understanding these diseases, their causes, and prevention measures is super important when it comes to responsible pet ownership.
To find out more about transmissible diseases at dog parks, keep reading! In just a few minutes, you can learn about prioritizing your dog’s health in public settings.
1. Parvovirus (Parvo)
Even just the word “parvovirus” sends shivers up the spines of dog owners everywhere. Parvo, caused by canine parvovirus type 2, or CPV-2, is incredibly contagious among puppies and young dogs. It is usually transmitted through contact with infected feces or contaminated spaces.
Symptoms of parvo in dogs can include:
- Severe diarrhea (often with blood)
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are far more vulnerable to the virus than those who are older and vaccinated. If left untreated, this virus can even lead to death because of the damage to the lining of the intestines and the immune suppression it causes. Pretty scary, right?
Treatment for parvovirus usually involves intensive supportive care, including IV fluids. Antibiotics are also given to avoid secondary bacterial infections, and anti-nausea medication can help alleviate symptoms. Nutritional support is also super important since the dog that is unwell will usually lose their appetite.
Preventing your dog from contracting this scary sickness is all about getting regular vaccinations, which begin at six to eight weeks of age with boosters every three to four weeks until the dog is 16 to 20 weeks old. Adult dogs will need regular booster shots to keep their immunity.
Good news: adopting a puppy who once had parvo is completely safe! Puppies and young dogs who have fully recovered from the disease generally go on to live long, happy lives.
2. Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis)
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is most often caused by a combination of canine parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. It spreads very easily in places where dogs are close to each other like dog parks. The main culprit for infection includes airborne droplets or direct contact with other infected animals.
Symptoms of kennel cough usually include a dry, persistent cough that is sometimes accompanied by nasal discharge and retching. In less serious cases, dogs will continue to be active and maintain their appetite. However, in more serious cases, pneumonia, lethargy, and fever can develop––very worrying for dog owners.
Treatment for kennel cough will mainly depend on how severe the symptoms are. Mild cases can sometimes resolve on their own, but it’s a good idea to seek veterinary care even if you’re relatively unconcerned. Management measures can include cough suppressants, antibiotics, and supportive care like rest and hydration.
Prevention is mainly achieved through vaccination. The Bordetella vaccine is intranasal or injectable, and it’s recommended for dogs who visit dog parks or boarding facilities where the exposure risk is very high. Regular boosters are important to maintain immunity and reduce the spread.
3. Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV) and is a highly contagious disease that affects dogs and wild animals, like raccoons and ferrets. It spreads through urine, airborne droplets, and the feces of infected animals.
Symptoms of distemper usually start to look like a mild cold. This includes nasal discharge and watery eyes. It can also cause fever, cough, and lethargy. As the disease goes on, dogs may have neurological symptoms such as seizures, tremors, and even paralysis. Often, the end result is death.
Treatment for this condition involves managing the symptoms, which include providing warmth, fluids, and antibiotics. Your dog may also be put on medication to control seizures. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment available.
Prevention, like the other diseases on this list, relies heavily on vaccination. Puppies should have a series of vaccinations for distemper starting early to prevent this life-threatening condition.
4. Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a very serious bacterial infection caused by various strains of Leptospira bacteria, which can infect both animals and humans. Usually, dogs will contract it through drinking contaminated water from lakes, ponds, or streams.
The symptoms of this awful infection include fever, muscle pain, and lethargy. However, more severe symptoms can include kidney or liver failure, bleeding disorders, and even jaundice. It is super important that you get your dog seen by a vet straight away as it can be a life-threatening illness.
Treatment involves antibiotics to alleviate the bacteria and supportive care, such as IV fluids for dehydration and medications to protect the kidneys and liver. Preventing this condition is simple: avoid letting your dog drink from natural bodies of water, even if the water source seems clear.
5. Canine Influenza
Canine influenza, also known as dog flu, is caused by two influenza strains known as H3N8 and H3N2. It essentially spreads through airborne droplets from coughing, barking, and sneezing. It can also be spread through contaminated objects and surfaces. This highly contagious disease can spread very quickly in environments where dogs are close together like shelters, kennels, and dog parks.
Symptoms of canine influenza include:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Reduced appetite
Some dogs may even develop a more severe form of the disease that includes high fever and pneumonia. Without veterinary care, this can be life-threatening. Prevention of canine influenza includes vaccination. They are recommended for dogs who are at a high risk of exposure like those constantly going to dog parks or boarding facilities. Vaccinations can help greatly to reduce the severity of the symptoms and the spread of the virus within other dogs.
Monitor your dogs and don’t head to the dog park if your dog is showing signs of fever, nasal discharge, coughing, or frequent sneezing. After all, you don’t want to risk getting other dogs sick, too!
