What is Canine Adenovirus Type 1?
CAV-1 is a virus that is worldwide and can cause disease in dogs, coyotes, foxes, and other canidae and Ursidae (bears). The virus can damage any of the organs, but it predominantly causes liver failure. Severely affected dogs may die within hours after the onset of symptoms causing many owners to think that their dog was poisoned. Fever, abdominal pain, lethargy, disorientation, seizures and changes in the cornea (clear part) of the eye may occur. Animal that survive the infection will carry and shed the virus in their urine for at least 6 to 9 months. The virus is resistant to environmental inactivation and can survive for days at room temperatue and for months at temperatures below 4 degrees Celsius. This is a life threatening disease but regular vaccinations can prevent it. |