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Campylobacter is a form of food poison. It can be
passed from people to dogs and then back to people again. It is also
referred to as "Show Crud" as it is very common in show dogs.
This disease is becoming more wide spread. As the
winter begins to pass into early spring each year, a new wave of deaths
occur from this. And each year, the question comes up again: "Is this a new
strain of Parvo?" and each time there are 100 different replies.
This disease is so similar to Parvo, that some dogs
have tested in the low positive for Parvo. In most cases they DO NOT have
Parvo and it has been recommended that three Parvo tests are needed to
exclude Parvo. This disease seems to move from the West to the East through
the dog shows.
It is medically known as CAMPYLOBACTERIOSIS, the name
of the organism causing this is Campylobacter Jejuni. This disease can be
tested for specifically, though some vets don't know about it. Bring it to
their attention that you might have an effected dog that appears to have
Parvo, but in your mind know that could not be possible, have them tested
for Campylobacter. It is important to note that this disease can be
transferred between humans, dogs, cats and other livestock. Many vets today
are reporting that a cure for Parvo has been established when they actually
are treating and curing Campylobacter and don’t realise it.
The Campylobacter Jejuni is a Gram-Negative, slender
curved, and motile rod. It is a species of bacteria that resembles small
tightly coiled spirals. Its organisms are known to cause abortion in sheep
and fever and stomach inflammation in man and may be associated with enteric
diseases of calves, lambs and other animals. A genus of bacteria found in
the reproductive organs, intestinal tract and oral cavity of animals and
man. Some species are pathogenic. It is a microaerophilic organism, which
means it has a requirement of reduced levels of oxygen. It is relatively
fragile and sensitive to environmental stresses (e.g. 21% oxygen, drying,
heating, disinfectants and acidic conditions). It causes more disease than
Shigella spp and Salmonella spp combined. (Taken from the US FDA "Bad Bug
Book") It is also known as Campylobacter enteritis or gastroenteritis. It
can also be diagnosed as Sirochete or Giardia diarrhoea.
TESTING: Diagnosis is direct
faecal on a VERY
fresh (still warm, so bacteria are still alive) sample, mixed with saline
and examined microscopically. There is usually a decrease in normal
bacterial numbers and motility. Blood testing will result in the low
positive for Parvo. Tests are not conclusive, so if a low Parvo test is
shown start treatment immediately!
INCUBATION TIME: Its incubation period is
reported to be anywhere from 2 to 10 days.
SYMPTOMS: These can mimic parvo. The
diarrhoea does not always have the foul odour. It usually progresses as
follows. Begins with mucus-covered solid stools, loose stools, progresses
to diarrhoea, profuse diarrhoea, the squirts, depressed appetite with or
without vomiting. The diarrhoea may be watery or sticky and can contain
(but not always) blood. These symptoms can be minor to severe. Some
animals hardly show any symptoms, while others can become fatally
dehydrated. Also seen are temperature drops and shock followed by death and
all within 12-24 hours. In very young puppies you will hear them cry quite
loudly and nothing will comfort them, then respiratory problems occur.
Puppies need attention immediately as the fatality rate is high
SOURCE OF INFECTION: Fecal matter,
non-chlorinated water, such as streams, ponds or puddles ' food poisoning
from food or from a human who has food poison, even a light case. This
disease can also be transmitted to these areas by our common fly, flitting
from one host to another. The bacteria is also found in raw or under cooked
meat (barf feeders be aware please) . For all intents and purposes for the Dog
Show Crud, it is transmitted in public X-Pens and public elimination areas.
Some also say through urine, saliva via contact, or through the air. This
bacteria reproduces at a rapid rate.
TREATMENT. As soon as any of the symptoms are
seen, see your vet immediately for the proper tests, because the disease
progresses so rapidly. Re-hydration may be required within a few hours of
the onset. This is the worst scenario. It could be that the dog will have a
very mild case and be treated at home with anti-diarrhoeal medication and
antibiotics but it is not worth it to take the chance. Most cases are not
as drastic/catastrophic, clinically as Parvo if treatment is done in a
timely manner. The younger the dog the more serious the case. Drugs for
treatment are Tetracycline, Erythromycin and some have had success using
Cephalexin.
(In humans you will also see fever, abdominal pain,
nausea, headache and muscle pain. This illness usually occurs 2-5 days
after ingestion of contaminated food or water and up to 10 days after.
Illness generally lasts 7-10 days, but relapses are not uncommon. Most
infections are self- limiting and are not treated with antibiotics.
However, treatment with Erythromycin does reduce the length of time that
infected individuals shed the bacteria in their faeces.)
Many veterinarians have recommended that if you have a
dog with diarrhoea, cramping, vomiting, etc., and has been to a dog show,
camping, groomer, park, or any public place, or if any one in your family
has been ill with diarrhoea or food poison like symptoms, etc., that the
dog be seen by your vet as soon as possible to diagnose the problem and
treat it accordingly.
Footnote - If only one dog in your household has
been affected ALL dogs in the house should be treated together
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