Campylobacteriosis

Condition Overview

Campylobacteriosis is a disease that produces acute infectious diarrhea in puppies. It also occurs in kennel dogs and strays - most of whom are in poor condition and are suffering from other intestinal infections. Incubation period is 1-7 days.

Symptoms

Signs of acute infection include vomiting and a watery diarrhea that contains mucus and sometimes blood. The disease usually runs its course in 5-15 days, but may be followed by chronic diarrhea in which bacteria is shed in the feces.

All symptoms +

Causes

This bacteria is acquired by contact with contaminated food, water, uncooked poultry or beef, and animal feces. Campylobacteria can survive for up to 5 weeks in water or unpasteurized milk.

Diagnosis

A fecal examination can provide confirmation of this condition.

Treatment

Treat mild diarrhea by not feeding the dog for the day, keep liquid levels high, remove dairy from the diet, take a 15 minute walk twice a day, and remove undue stress from the dogs environment.

Prevention

Support

If your pet has severe diarrhea for more than 24 hours accompanied my fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, or excessive thirst, contact your vet immediately.