Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Welfare and Infectious Hepatitis Prevention

Canine infectious hepatitis (CIH) caused by canine adenovirus type 1 is a serious vaccine-preventable disease. Vaccination protects dogs from this acute welfare threat.

Key Facts

CIH causes acute liver failure with high mortality in unvaccinated dogs
Vaccination with CAV-2 provides cross-protection against CAV-1
CIH is included in routine puppy vaccination programmes in the UK
The disease is now uncommon in well-vaccinated populations but outbreaks occur
Recovered dogs may become chronic carriers shedding virus in urine

Welfare Considerations

CIH causes acute severe welfare harm and high mortality. Vaccination is highly effective and this entirely preventable disease should be eliminated through comprehensive vaccination coverage.

What You Can Do

Ensure all puppies complete their vaccination programme including CAV-2
Maintain booster vaccinations as recommended by your vet
Learn about vaccine-preventable diseases and their welfare implications
Support community vaccination programmes to maintain population immunity