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Showing posts with the label Canine Hepacivirus

Canine Kobuvirus (CaKoV): An Emerging Enteric Pathogen and the Challenge of Viral Co-Infections

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1. Introduction The canine viral gastroenteritis is undergoing dynamic changes with the detection of new viral pathogens. Among these, Canine Kobuvirus ( CaKoV ) has been recognized as an important, though poorly studied, agent in canine viral gastroenteritis. Though Canine Parvovirus (CPV) and Canine Coronavirus (CCoV) are recognized as major viral pathogens in canine viral gastroenteritis, the detection rate of CaKoV in infected dogs indicates that it is probably playing an active role in canine enteric viral disease. 2. Viral Taxonomy and Genetic Diversity CaKoV is classified as a member of the Kobuvirus genus in the family Picornaviridae . The viral genome is 8.2 kb in length and consists of a single open reading frame (ORF) that codes for a polyprotein that is subsequently cleaved into structural and non-structural proteins.  • Genetic Characterization:  The viral genome has been found to possess considerable genetic diversity . The detection of unique viral lineages in...

Brucella canis: The Sneaky Pathogen Causing Infertility and Zoonotic Risks in Dogs"

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Introduction While the news of Rabies and Parvovirus dominates the front pages of veterinary journals, a stealthy and cunning foe, Brucella canis , silently attacks breeding stock and poses a danger to the general public. As a Gram-negative, facultative, intracellular coccobacillus , Brucella canis is the primary causative agent of Contagious Abortion and Reproductive Failure in Dogs. But most importantly, it's a Zoonotic disease , meaning that it can leap from your loyal canine companions to you. Transmission The transmission of Brucella canis from one dog to another, or from a mother to a puppy, or even from a puppy to a human, is a complex and not yet fully understood subject. However, Brucella canis is a highly contagious disease and can be transmitted as follows: Oronasal contact Oro-Nasal transmission of vaginal discharge, aborted fetuses, or urine. Venereal Transmission Venereal transmission, i.e., from a female in heat to a male through coitus. Vertical transmission Vertic...

Helicobacter heilmannii: An Emerging Zoonotic Pathogen and the Hidden Cause of Feline and Canine Gastritis

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1.Introduction The Helicobacter genus comprises a wide range of bacteria that have adapted to survive in the extreme and acidic environment of the stomach. Though H. pylori is the primary focus of human gastroenterology, NHPH , including H. heilmannii , are increasingly recognized for their clinical relevance [1, 2].In domestic pets, H. heilmannii is notably prevalent in both symptomatic and clinically healthy animals. The zoonotic potential of H. heilmannii, or the ability to transmit the bacteria from pets to their owners, adds a multifaceted public health issue to the management of this microorganism. Though it is associated with chronic gastritis and even gastric cancer in humans, H. heilmannii is still an understudied microorganism in relation to the human-animal bond [1, 3]. 2. Prevalence and Pathogenesis in Pets It is a common inhabitant of the stomach of dogs and cats. Studies for its prevalence have yielded a range of 41 to 100 percent in healthy dogs and cats, and similar...

Did You Know Dogs Have a "Hepatitis C" Relative? Meet Canine Hepacivirus

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What is Canine Hepacivirus (CHV)? Everyone is aware of the serious liver infection known as Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). However, not many people are aware that their canine friends also carry a similar virus that causes serious infection in dogs. This virus is known as Canine Hepacivirus (CHV), and it is one of the most interesting discoveries in the field of veterinary science in recent times.Canine Hepacivirus was first detected in 2011 and is a 'cousin' of the Hepatitis C virus that infects humans. In fact, it is the closest relative of HCV among all animal viruses that have been detected so far.[1,2] Where Did it Come From? It is believed that Canine Hepacivirus and the Hepatitis C virus share a common ancestor that lived many centuries ago— between 500 and 1,000 years ago .[2,5] It is also believed that this virus was initially present in horses and was transmitted to dogs at a time when horses and dogs lived and worked together.[2,6] Is My Dog at Risk? The first thing to k...