Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Mystery dog illness in US state

Ohio investigates possible presence of canine circovirus

A spate of mysterious dog illnesses in the US state of Ohio are feared to be due to circovirus, a disease normally found in pigs.

The state's Department of Agriculture is urging veterinary surgeons to contact its Division of Animal Health if they suspect any animal in their care is suffering from the suspected virus.

In a statement released at the beginning of September, the department said it has been taking reports of "severe" dog illness in several parts of Ohio for the past three weeks.

It said all the affected dogs have exhibited similar symptoms, including vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, weight loss and lethargy, and that it is generally believed there is an unknown contributor to the cases.

However, the department has announced that a faecal sample of one ill dog in the state has tested positive for canine circovirus – the first detection of the disease in Ohio.

As part of its investigation into the mystery illnesses, the department is also looking into the significance of this finding.

Dr Tony Forshey, state veterinary surgeon, said: "Because the symptoms being exhibited can also be linked to other known illnesses, additional analysis and information is needed to determine if this virus alone or in co-infection contributes to illness and death in dogs."

He added: "While we continue to work diligently to identify what is making these dogs sick, we are asking Ohio's veterinarians to help by contacting our laboratory for consultation if they suspect they are treating a related case."

Related News
Vigilance for mystery illness

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.