Giardia
Giardia (Giardia duodenalis) Why it matters: Very common cause of diarrhea, especially in puppies and dogs exposed to other dogs or surface water. How dogs get it: Drinking contaminated water, licking contaminated paws/fur, or exposure to infected feces. Common signs: Soft stool/diarrhea (often intermittent), foul odor, gas, weight loss, or no signs. Diagnosis: Fecal antigen […]
Whipworms
Whipworms (Trichuris vulpis) Why they matter: A common GI parasite in U.S. dogs and can cause chronic large-bowel diarrhea. How dogs get them: Ingesting eggs from contaminated environments (soil/yards). Eggs can persist in the environment for long periods. Common signs: Intermittent diarrhea (often with mucus/blood), straining, weight loss—or none. Diagnosis: Fecal testing; whipworms can be […]
Hookworms
Hookworms (Ancylostoma spp., Uncinaria stenocephala) Why they matter: Can cause intestinal blood loss, especially in puppies; some species can affect people via skin contact. How dogs get them: Ingesting larvae/eggs from contaminated soil or feces; larvae can also penetrate skin. Common signs: Diarrhea, dark/tarry stool, weakness, pale gums, poor growth (or no signs). Diagnosis: Fecal […]
Roundworms
Roundworms (Toxocara canis) Why they matter: Extremely common in puppies and can be zoonotic. How dogs get them: Often from the mother (before birth or through nursing) or by ingesting eggs from the environment. Common signs: Pot-bellied appearance, poor growth, vomiting/diarrhea, or no signs at all. Diagnosis: Fecal testing (microscopic exam; sometimes antigen testing). Treatment […]
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Feline Herpesvirus-1)
What is it?Feline viral rhinotracheitis is a highly contagious upper respiratory disease caused by feline herpesvirus-1. It is one of the most common infectious diseases seen in kittens and cats. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Once infected, cats carry the virus for life, with intermittent reactivation during times of stress. Clinical signs may include: […]
Feline Calicivirus
What is it?Feline calicivirus is a contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory system and oral cavity. It is a common cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. How is it spread?The virus spreads through: Calicivirus can persist in the environment and is common in multi-cat households and shelters. Clinical signs may include: Rare virulent strains […]
Feline Panleukopenia Virus (Feline Distemper)
What is it?Feline panleukopenia is a severe, often fatal viral disease caused by a parvovirus closely related to canine parvovirus. It primarily affects kittens. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Clinical signs may include: Mortality rates are high, particularly in young kittens. Why vaccination is important:There is no cure. Treatment is intensive and often unsuccessful. […]
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
What is it?Feline leukemia virus is a retroviral infection that suppresses the immune system and increases the risk of cancer, anemia, and secondary infections. How is it spread?FeLV is transmitted through: Kittens are especially susceptible. Clinical signs may include: Why vaccination is important:FeLV is a leading cause of death in cats. Vaccination is recommended for […]
Canine Influenza Virus (CIV)
What is it?Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is a highly contagious respiratory disease of dogs caused by influenza A viruses, most commonly the H3N8 and H3N2 strains. While many cases are mild, CIV can lead to serious respiratory illness, particularly in puppies, senior dogs, or those with underlying health conditions. How is it spread?CIV spreads rapidly […]
Lyme Disease
What is it?Lyme disease is a tick-borne bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. It can affect joints, kidneys, and the nervous system. How is it spread?Transmission occurs through: Clinical signs may include: Why vaccination is important:Vaccination, when combined with tick prevention, provides strong protection in endemic areas. Treatment does not always prevent long-term complications, particularly […]