Canine herpesvirus one, also known as fading puppy syndrome, attacks the upper respiratory tract. Herpes strains, such as human, feline and canine herpes, are species specific meaning the virus attacks certain species, not having the same reaction if passed to a different animal. Each strain is contagious among their desired host.
Canine herpes can be spread through nose to nose contact, airborne droplets and in the utero. Dogs under 12 weeks are extremely susceptible to catching herpes whether it’s from older dogs in the home, or in the kennel. Once the pups are older than 12 weeks, they can fight off the severity of the disease and usually display signs of a cold instead. On the other hand, adult female dogs exposed during pregnancy can cause severe and even fatal complications for the litter.
Puppies younger than three weeks that come in contact with herpes typically have fatal outcomes. It takes about four to six days for them to become symptomatic but once signs are present they will pass within 24-36 hours. There is currently no licensed vaccine in America for Canine Herpes. Although one is approved and used in Europe the benefits are still unknown.
Currently there is no vaccine in the United States. Canine herpes is more commonly seen in Europe and Asia due to their wild dog population, giving them cause to create a vaccine. Due to uncertainty surrounding this issue and its rarity in puppies, Wise Woofs is hesitant to give an expecting mom a vaccine within two weeks of childbirth. It is difficult since the risk for poor outcomes is significantly higher in early life.
So how do we protect our pups?
When handling a new puppy, or expecting a mother to be, it’s extremely important to wash surfaces frequently if herpes is known in the mother. While herpes cannot spread directly from humans, there are other illnesses we can pass on. While isolating our puppies is not necessary, sanitizing surfaces and areas that will be shared among canine friends is always recommended. With these small efforts on our part, we can help our dogs live long healthy lives.
