Canine Vaccination Series: The facts about Infectious Canine Hepatitis

Infectious canine hepatitis (ICH), caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1), is a worldwide disease of dogs. CAV-1 infects a wide range of tissues, including the liver (hence the name hepatitis), kidneys, spleen and lungs. Infected dogs typically develop a fever and abnormal bleeding, and experience loss of white blood cells, which are a key component of the immune system. Opacity of the eye("blue eye") occurs in some cases. Death, chronic hepatitis or severe illness may occur, and recovery may be gradual in nonfatal cases. CAV-1 is shed in urine and can survive outside the host for weeks or months.  


Your dog can contract CAV-1 virus through direct contact with 
infected saliva, urine, or feces either with your dog’s mouth or nose. Even a dog dish that has been licked clean can carry the virus. The tonsils and lymph nodes are the first body parts effected. The incubation period can last 4-9 days, after which the virus enters the bloodstream.


Your dog receives protection against infectious canine hepatitis when they receive their annual canine distemper combo vaccine.  Part of the combo include infectious canine hepatitis. This is given once a year and occurs with their physical.