Hepatozoonosis in Dogs

Canine Hepatozoonosis is a parasitic infection of dogs. There are two different species of protozoa that can cause hepatozoonosis: Hepatozoon canis and Hepatozoon americanum. H. americanum is most common throughout the Southern and Southeastern United States, though it has also been observed in other areas. H. canis has been noted in a number of countries, including the United States; it is most common in tropical regions.

Sporozoites contained in the tick migrate into the host through the gastrointestinal tract. Dogs and other canids are believed to be the definitive host of H. canis, so Old World Hepatozoonosis can only be caught via tick ingestion. H. americanum is also carried in an intermediary or paratenic host which researchers have yet to identify. The parasite can remain dormant as a cystozoite (a cystic developing stage) in the muscles cells of this vertebrate host until it is ingested by a dog and causes ACH.

The illness is difficult to treat and can be fatal in dogs showing symptoms. Both forms are transmitted from ticks and are debilitating. Without treatment, chronic wasting begins in either form, which usually ends with death within 12 months.

This disease is found most commonly in hunting dogs, rural dogs, and dogs that are mainly outdoor animals.

Causes of Hepatozoonosis in Dogs

Hepatozoonosis is carried by the tick Amblyomma maculatum. Dogs become infected through being bitten by an infected tick or through ingestion of an infected tick.

Symptoms of Hepatozoonosis in Dogs

These are some of the symptoms that might indicate your dog has Hepatozoonosis.

• Fever
• Depression
• Weight loss
• Muscle atrophy
• Soreness
• Stiffness
• Eye discharge
• Bloody diarrhea
• Joint pain
• Generalized pain (hyperesthesia)

Treatment of Hepatozoonosis in Dogs

The illness is difficult to treat and can be fatal in dogs showing symptoms. Both forms are transmitted from ticks and are debilitating. Without treatment, chronic wasting begins in either form, which usually ends with death within 12 months.

Prevention

Hepatozoonosis in dogs can be prevented by controlling ticks and tick bites. It may be possible to remove an infectious tick before it has had a chance to pass the disease into the dog’s blood. Always check your dog after returning from an outing, and remove ticks carefully, thoroughly, and immediately.