Understanding Aujeszky Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention
Aujeszky disease, also known as pseudorabies, is a severe and typically fatal viral infection caused by
Suid herpesvirus 1 (SHV-1). Although primarily affecting swine, it poses a grave threat to other mammals, including
dogs, when they come into contact with infected pigs or wild boar. This article explores the condition in detail, including how dogs become infected, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, and crucial prevention strategies.
What Is Aujeszky Disease?
Suid herpesvirus 1 (SHV-1), the causative agent of Aujeszky disease, belongs to the
Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily. While it persists in swine populations—its natural hosts—non-swine species like dogs suffer a rapid and fatal course upon infection.
How Dogs Contract Aujeszky Disease
Dogs typically acquire the virus through:
- Ingesting raw pork or offal contaminated with SHV-1
- Contact with infected wild boars
- Exposure to contaminated soil, feed, or surfaces
It’s important to note that
dog-to-dog transmission does not occur.
Incubation and Clinical Signs
The
incubation period in dogs ranges from
2–10 days. Clinical symptoms are dramatic and progress rapidly:
- Sudden behavioral changes
- Neurological symptoms like seizures and loss of coordination
- Severe, localized itching on the face or head
- Excessive salivation and vomiting
- Respiratory distress and paralysis of the jaw
- Death within 24–48 hours of symptom onset
The most characteristic symptom is the intense pruritus, often referred to as
“mad itch,” due to viral invasion of peripheral nervous tissues.
Diagnosis of Aujeszky Disease in Dogs
Due to the rapid progression and fatal nature of the disease, diagnosis is primarily postmortem. Diagnostic tools include:
- PCR testing for viral DNA
- Histopathological analysis revealing non-suppurative inflammation
- Virus isolation and immunohistochemistry
- Differential diagnosis excludes rabies, canine distemper, and toxic poisoning
No Treatment Available
Currently, there is
no effective treatment or vaccine available for dogs. Supportive care is
palliative, aiming only to ease suffering.
Prevention Strategies
Prevention is the only viable means of protecting dogs:
- Avoid feeding them raw pork or wild boar meat
- Keep dogs away from swine farming facilities
- Practice strict hygiene and biosecurity if working in pig production
- Hunters should vigilantly prevent contact between their dogs and wild boars or contaminated meat
Pathogenesis in Dogs
Pathological examination reveals:
- Hemorrhage and ganglioneuritis
- Encephalitis centered in the brainstem
- Cardiac lesions like myocardial necrosis
- Respiratory distress linked to cardiac damage rather than pulmonary infection
Swine as the Reservoir
Swine remain the primary
reservoir hosts. The virus can survive for days in contaminated environments like soil and feed. Wild boars and feral pigs sustain the virus in
sylvatic cycles, making control a challenge.
Global Distribution and Control
Aujeszky disease has been reported across
Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Molecular studies show various strains circulating. To contain spread:
- Swine must be mass vaccinated with gene-deleted live vaccines
- Biosecurity protocols are essential
- Surveillance of wild pig populations is critical
Human infection is not confirmed under typical exposure, but caution is advised when handling potentially infected animals.
Conclusion
Aujeszky disease is a lethal neurological condition for dogs, caused by exposure to infected pigs or wild boars. With no treatment or vaccine available for dogs,
prevention—primarily through controlling exposure—is the best defense. For pet owners, especially those with working or hunting dogs, awareness and biosecurity are non-negotiable tools against this deadly threat.
