We often just use the label “corona virus”to refer to COVID-19 that is currently running un-checked throughout the world's human population. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause the cold and flu-like symptoms in humans. This family of viruses also infect other species, including cats and dogs. Dogs can be infected with Canine Enteric Coronavirus disease, known as CCoV. Although dogs have been documented with the COVID-19 virus, this is not the virus that inflicts their population.
Recently at High Desert Veterinary we have seen some cases of Canine Enteric Coronavirus. (Cats and pigs have a very similar coronavirus.) Most infected dogs have mild gastro-intestinal clinical signs, but there are increasing reports of lethal CCoV infections throughout the country. Puppies are more susceptible to this virus. Canine Enteric Coronavirus is highly contagious via fecal–oral transmission. Systems of this infection are diarrhea, lethargy and vomiting. These symptoms are common to many other infections so taking your dog to the vet is recommended. The good news is, there is a vaccine for this virus!