Infectious Hepatitis in Dogs

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                      General Information



Infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) is a serious viral disease that

affects the liver, kidneys, lymph nodes, eyes and other

organs.



Nearly all dogs are exposed to ICH virus at some time during

their lives, but not all dogs become gravely ill.  The disease

may be so mild that it passes unnoticed or may be so severe that

death occurs within a few hours of the first signs of illness.



Signs of ICH develop about a week after exposure to the virus.

High fever, loss of appetite, increased thirst, tonsillitis

and reddening of the lining of the mouth, throat and eyelids may

occur.  In some cases, there is bloody diarrhea.  The virus may

be present in any body secretion and may be present in the urine

for up to 6-9 months after an apparent recovery.  A bluish cast

to the eye may occur during the recovery period.



A highly effective vaccine is available to prevent ICH.  All dogs

should be immunized yearly.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Hospitalization is required for the initial treatment.

    Intravenous fluids and other intensive measures are often

    necessary.  Various blood and laboratory tests are necessary

    to evaluate the response to treatment.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





4.  Exercise:  Due to the contagious nature of ICH, your pet

    should be kept away from other dogs during recovery.  As your

    pet recovers, gradually increase the amount of exercise over

    a 1-month period.



5.  Special instructions:





       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your dog vomits or has diarrhea.



    * Your dog refuses to eat or seems depressed.



    * Your dog has seizures.