Canine respiratory coronavirus
Canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCoV) is a virus that can infect the respiratory tract of dogs. It belongs to the family of coronaviruses that can also cause diseases such as SARS, MERS and COVID-19 in humans. However, CRCoV is not transmissible to humans and does not pose a threat to public health.
How is CRCoV transmitted?
CRCoV is transmitted through direct contact with infected dogs or their secretions. The virus can be detected in nasal, eye and oral mucous membranes as well as in the feces of infected dogs. The risk of infection is particularly high in confined spaces such as animal shelters, boarding kennels or dog shows where many dogs come together.
What symptoms does a dog with CRCoV show?
The symptoms of a CRCoV infection are usually mild and similar to those of a cold. These include
- sneezing
- coughing
- nasal discharge
- fever
- Loss of appetite
- lethargy
The symptoms usually appear within 2 to 5 days after infection and last for about a week. In rare cases, more severe complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis can occur, especially if the dog already suffers from other respiratory diseases or has a weakened immune system.
How is CRCoV diagnosed?
CRCoV is diagnosed by detecting the virus in a sample taken from the dog's nose or throat. For this purpose, a swab is taken and examined in a laboratory. The sample should be taken as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms, as the amount of virus decreases over time.
How is CRCoV treated?
There is no specific treatment for CRCoV. The therapy depends on the symptoms and the general condition of the dog. As a rule, symptomatic treatment is sufficient, which may include the following:
- Rest
- fluid intake
- Fever-reducing medication
- Cough-relieving medication
- Antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections
In severe cases, oxygen therapy or artificial respiration may be necessary.
How can CRCoV be prevented?
The best way to prevent CRCoV is to avoid or minimize contact with infected dogs. The following measures should be observed:
- Keep your dog away from other dogs that show symptoms of respiratory disease.
- Regularly clean and disinfect the objects your dog uses, such as bowls, toys or blankets.
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after handling your dog or other dogs.
- Avoid keeping your dog in confined spaces such as shelters, boarding kennels or dog shows if possible.
- Have your dog regularly examined and vaccinated by a vet.
There is currently no vaccine against CRCoV, but there are vaccines against other respiratory diseases such as kennel cough or parainfluenza that can protect your dog.
CRCoV is a virus that can infect the respiratory tract of dogs. It usually causes mild symptoms such as sneezing, coughing or nasal discharge, which subside after about a week. In rare cases, more serious complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis can occur. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected dogs or their secretions. Diagnosis is made by detecting the virus in a sample taken from the dog's nose or throat. Treatment depends on the symptoms and the general condition of the dog. Prevention consists of avoiding or minimizing contact with infected dogs and having your dog regularly examined and vaccinated by a vet.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
We help you find the nearest vet → This way