Salmonellosis

Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection caused by various species of Salmonella bacteria that affects dogs and poses a significant zoonotic risk to humans and other animals. This gastrointestinal disease occurs when dogs ingest food, water, or materials contaminated with Salmonella organisms, which then colonize the intestinal tract and potentially spread to other organs. While salmonellosis can affect any dog, it is particularly concerning in puppies, elderly dogs, and those with compromised immune systems. The condition ranges from asymptomatic carriage, where dogs shed bacteria without showing clinical signs, to severe systemic illness requiring intensive veterinary intervention.

The Salmonella bacteria are gram-negative organisms that have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to invade intestinal cells and evade the immune system. Once ingested, these bacteria attach to the intestinal lining, where they multiply and produce toxins that damage the gut wall. This invasion triggers an inflammatory response that leads to the characteristic symptoms of diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. In severe cases, the bacteria can breach the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream, causing bacteremia and potentially affecting multiple organ systems including the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes.

Salmonellosis represents a significant public health concern because infected dogs can transmit the bacteria to humans through direct contact with feces, saliva, or contaminated surfaces. This zoonotic potential makes proper hygiene and handling practices essential when caring for infected dogs. The disease has gained increased attention in recent years due to its association with raw food diets, contaminated commercial pet foods, and treats such as pig ears and rawhide chews. Understanding the transmission routes and risk factors helps pet owners make informed decisions about their dogs' diet and environment.

Treatment of salmonellosis varies depending on the severity of clinical signs, with many mild cases resolving with supportive care alone. More severe infections may require antibiotic therapy, fluid support, and hospitalization. Early veterinary intervention is crucial for dogs showing significant symptoms, as prompt treatment improves outcomes and reduces the duration of bacterial shedding. Pet owners should be aware that even after clinical recovery, dogs may continue to shed Salmonella in their feces for several weeks, necessitating continued hygiene precautions to protect family members and other pets.

The primary cause of salmonellosis in dogs is ingestion of Salmonella bacteria, with over 2,000 different serovars identified that can potentially cause disease. The most common serovars affecting dogs include Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella enteritidis, and Salmonella newport, though many others have been isolated from clinical cases. Dogs typically acquire the infection by consuming contaminated food, water, or prey animals, or through contact with infected feces from other animals. The bacteria are remarkably resilient and can survive in the environment for extended periods, particularly in moist conditions, making environmental contamination a significant source of infection.

Raw and undercooked meat products represent a major source of Salmonella exposure for dogs. The popularity of raw food diets has been associated with increased detection of Salmonella in both dogs and their household environments. Commercial dry kibble and treats are not immune to contamination, with numerous recalls occurring due to Salmonella detection in pet food products. Contaminated treats, particularly those made from animal-derived ingredients like pig ears, rawhide, and jerky treats, have been implicated in outbreaks affecting both dogs and their owners. Even handling these products can transfer bacteria to food preparation surfaces and human hands.

Environmental factors play a substantial role in Salmonella transmission. Dogs that roam freely, hunt small prey, or scavenge have increased exposure risk. Wildlife, birds, and reptiles commonly carry Salmonella and can contaminate yards, parks, and water sources. Dogs that drink from puddles, ponds, or streams may ingest bacteria shed by infected wildlife. Similarly, coprophagia, the consumption of feces from other animals, provides a direct route of infection. Farms, kennels, and areas with high animal traffic have higher environmental contamination levels, increasing transmission risk for dogs in these settings.

Several risk factors increase a dog's susceptibility to developing clinical salmonellosis after exposure. Puppies under six months old have immature immune systems and gut microbiomes, making them more vulnerable to infection. Senior dogs and those receiving immunosuppressive medications such as corticosteroids or chemotherapy drugs have reduced ability to fight off bacterial invasion. Concurrent gastrointestinal disease, recent antibiotic use that disrupts normal gut flora, and stress from hospitalization, surgery, or travel can all predispose dogs to clinical disease. Dogs with existing conditions affecting gut motility or acid production may also be at increased risk.

The pathogenesis of salmonellosis involves complex bacterial mechanisms that allow Salmonella to invade and survive within host cells. After ingestion, the bacteria must survive the acidic environment of the stomach before reaching the small intestine. There, specialized proteins on the bacterial surface facilitate attachment to intestinal epithelial cells. The bacteria then inject effector proteins into host cells using a molecular syringe-like apparatus called a type III secretion system. These effector proteins manipulate host cell processes, allowing bacterial entry and survival within membrane-bound compartments. This intracellular survival strategy protects the bacteria from many immune defenses and contributes to persistent infection.

The earliest warning signs of salmonellosis in dogs are often subtle and may be mistaken for simple dietary indiscretion or stress-related gastrointestinal upset. Pet owners might notice their dog showing decreased enthusiasm for meals, mild lethargy, or slight changes in stool consistency before more obvious symptoms develop. Some dogs develop a low-grade fever that may go undetected without temperature measurement. These initial signs typically appear within 12 to 72 hours after ingestion of contaminated material, though the incubation period can vary depending on the infectious dose and the dog's immune status. Unfortunately, many owners miss these early indicators, only seeking veterinary care when symptoms become more pronounced.

The most common and characteristic symptoms of salmonellosis involve the gastrointestinal tract. Acute diarrhea is frequently the first obvious sign, ranging from soft stools to profuse watery or mucoid diarrhea. The feces may contain blood, giving them a dark tarry appearance or showing fresh red streaks, indicating damage to the intestinal lining. Vomiting often accompanies the diarrhea and can range from occasional episodes to persistent retching. Abdominal pain manifests as a tense or hunched posture, reluctance to move, or vocalization when the belly is touched. Dogs may show excessive drooling, lip-licking, and grass-eating behavior associated with nausea.

Behavioral changes during salmonellosis infection are significant and help owners recognize that their dog is unwell. Affected dogs typically become markedly lethargic, showing little interest in activities they normally enjoy. They may seek out cool surfaces to lie on when feverish or prefer secluded spots away from family activity. Appetite loss is common, with some dogs refusing all food and requiring encouragement to drink water. Depression and a generally dull demeanor replace the dog's usual bright, alert attitude. Some dogs become irritable or restless, unable to find a comfortable position due to abdominal discomfort.

Physical examination findings in dogs with salmonellosis reflect the systemic nature of the infection. Fever, typically ranging from 103 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, is common in clinical cases. Dehydration develops quickly due to fluid losses from vomiting and diarrhea, evident as tacky gums, decreased skin elasticity, and sunken eyes. The abdomen may feel tense or painful on palpation, and increased gut sounds may be audible. Enlarged lymph nodes, particularly those in the abdominal region, can sometimes be detected. Weight loss occurs rapidly in dogs with prolonged symptoms, and muscle wasting becomes apparent in severe or chronic cases.

As salmonellosis progresses, symptoms may escalate or additional complications may develop. Severe dehydration can lead to weakness, collapse, and signs of shock including rapid heart rate, weak pulses, and pale gums. Some dogs develop bloody diarrhea that becomes increasingly profuse, indicating significant intestinal damage. Prolonged vomiting and diarrhea cause electrolyte imbalances that can affect heart function and cause muscle tremors. In cases where bacteria enter the bloodstream, signs of septicemia may develop, including high fever, rapid breathing, and altered mental status. Joint swelling and lameness occasionally occur when bacteria localize in joints.

Certain symptoms warrant immediate emergency veterinary care and should never be ignored. Profuse bloody diarrhea or vomiting blood indicates severe intestinal damage requiring urgent intervention. Signs of shock including collapse, extremely pale or gray gums, and unresponsiveness represent life-threatening emergencies. Persistent vomiting preventing any fluid intake leads to rapid deterioration and requires intravenous support. Fever exceeding 106 degrees Fahrenheit can cause organ damage and requires aggressive cooling measures. Pregnant dogs showing symptoms need immediate care due to risks of abortion and septicemia. Any dog that appears severely weak, unresponsive, or in distress should receive emergency veterinary attention without delay.

The diagnostic process for salmonellosis begins with a thorough veterinary examination and detailed history gathering. The veterinarian will ask about recent dietary changes, raw food feeding, access to garbage or contaminated water sources, and potential exposure to infected animals. Information about the onset and progression of symptoms, stool characteristics, and any treatments already attempted helps guide the diagnostic approach. Physical examination assesses hydration status, body temperature, abdominal tenderness, and overall condition. The veterinarian will evaluate the dog's mucous membrane color, capillary refill time, and heart rate to determine if dehydration or shock requires immediate intervention before diagnostic testing proceeds.

Definitive diagnosis of salmonellosis requires isolation and identification of Salmonella bacteria through laboratory testing. Fecal culture remains the gold standard for diagnosis, though it has limitations including intermittent bacterial shedding that can result in false-negative results. Multiple samples collected over several days increase the likelihood of detecting the organism. Rectal swabs may be submitted when fresh fecal samples are unavailable. Newer polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing can detect Salmonella DNA in fecal samples with higher sensitivity than traditional culture and provides faster results. Blood cultures may be performed in dogs suspected of having bacteremia, allowing detection of systemic infection.

Additional diagnostic tests help assess the severity of infection and guide treatment decisions. Complete blood count often reveals changes consistent with bacterial infection, including elevated or decreased white blood cell counts, and may show evidence of anemia if significant intestinal bleeding has occurred. Serum biochemistry panels evaluate organ function, detect electrolyte imbalances, and assess hydration status. Elevated liver enzymes may indicate hepatic involvement, while changes in kidney values suggest dehydration or direct renal effects. Abdominal radiographs can reveal gas patterns suggesting intestinal inflammation, while abdominal ultrasound may show thickened intestinal walls, enlarged lymph nodes, or other abnormalities.

Several other conditions can present with similar symptoms and must be differentiated from salmonellosis. Parvovirus infection, particularly in young or unvaccinated dogs, causes severe bloody diarrhea and vomiting with rapid deterioration. Other bacterial infections including Campylobacter and Clostridium can produce comparable gastrointestinal signs. Parasitic infections such as giardiasis, hookworms, and coccidia affect the gut and cause diarrhea. Inflammatory bowel disease, dietary intolerance, intestinal foreign bodies, and toxin ingestion may also mimic salmonellosis. The veterinarian uses the history, examination findings, and test results to systematically rule out these differential diagnoses. Accurate identification is essential because treatment approaches differ significantly among these conditions.

Immediate treatment priorities for dogs with salmonellosis focus on stabilization and supportive care. Fluid therapy is often the most critical intervention, particularly for dogs presenting with dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea. Intravenous fluid administration replaces lost fluids and electrolytes while providing ongoing support during recovery. Severely dehydrated or shocky dogs may require aggressive fluid resuscitation with monitoring of blood pressure and urine output. Antiemetic medications help control vomiting, allowing the dog to retain fluids and reducing further fluid losses. Gastroprotectant medications may be administered to soothe the irritated stomach lining and reduce nausea.

The role of antibiotic therapy in treating salmonellosis remains somewhat controversial in veterinary medicine. Many veterinarians reserve antibiotics for dogs with severe systemic illness, bacteremia, or immunocompromise, as antibiotic treatment of uncomplicated cases may prolong bacterial shedding and contribute to antibiotic resistance. When antibiotics are indicated, selection should ideally be guided by culture and sensitivity results to ensure effectiveness against the specific Salmonella strain. Commonly used antibiotics include fluoroquinolones such as enrofloxacin, trimethoprim-sulfonamide combinations, and amoxicillin-clavulanate. Treatment typically continues for 14 to 21 days, and the full course must be completed even if symptoms resolve earlier to prevent relapse and resistance development.

Surgical intervention is rarely required for salmonellosis but may become necessary in cases with complications. Severe intestinal damage leading to perforation requires emergency surgical repair. Intestinal intussusception, where one segment of intestine telescopes into another due to abnormal motility, necessitates surgical correction. Abscess formation in abdominal organs or draining of infected fluid collections may require surgical drainage. These complications are uncommon but represent serious conditions requiring immediate intervention. Surgical cases carry a guarded prognosis and require extended hospitalization and intensive postoperative care.

Supportive care forms the foundation of salmonellosis treatment regardless of severity. Dietary management typically involves initial fasting for 12 to 24 hours to rest the gastrointestinal tract, followed by gradual introduction of a bland, easily digestible diet. Small, frequent meals of boiled chicken and rice or prescription gastrointestinal diets help minimize further irritation. Probiotics may be recommended to help restore normal gut flora disrupted by infection and any antibiotic treatment. Nutritional support becomes critical for dogs unable to eat, potentially requiring feeding tube placement or parenteral nutrition in severe cases. Pain management with appropriate analgesics improves comfort during recovery.

Alternative and complementary approaches may support recovery alongside conventional treatment. Probiotic supplementation helps reestablish beneficial intestinal bacteria and may reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea. Some veterinarians recommend specific probiotic strains shown to compete with pathogenic bacteria. Digestive enzyme supplementation can aid nutrient absorption during recovery. Herbal therapies with demonstrated antimicrobial or gut-soothing properties may provide adjunctive support, though should only be used under veterinary guidance. Acupuncture has been used to help manage nausea and support immune function in some patients. These complementary approaches should not replace conventional veterinary care but may enhance overall treatment response.

Treatment decisions are influenced by multiple factors including disease severity, patient characteristics, and practical considerations. Dogs with mild symptoms and good hydration status may be managed as outpatients with oral fluids, dietary modification, and close monitoring. Severely affected dogs or those with complicating factors require hospitalization for intensive care. The presence of other pets or children in the household may influence decisions about isolation and hygiene protocols during treatment. Financial considerations often factor into treatment planning, with veterinarians working with owners to develop appropriate care plans within budget constraints. The zoonotic nature of the disease adds urgency to treatment decisions, as reducing bacterial shedding protects human family members.

Recovery timeline from salmonellosis varies considerably depending on the severity of infection and promptness of treatment. Dogs with mild to moderate cases typically show improvement within three to five days of initiating supportive care. Appetite usually returns first, followed by normalization of stool consistency over the following week. Complete recovery from uncomplicated cases generally occurs within one to two weeks. More severe cases involving systemic infection or significant intestinal damage require longer recovery periods, potentially extending several weeks. Some dogs experience prolonged or recurring symptoms requiring extended treatment and monitoring.

Post-treatment care requirements focus on supporting continued gastrointestinal healing and preventing relapse. Dietary management remains important during recovery, with gradual transition from bland diets back to regular food over several days to avoid triggering symptom recurrence. Ensuring adequate hydration through access to fresh water and potentially adding water to food helps maintain recovery. Follow-up fecal testing is often recommended to confirm bacterial clearance, particularly in households with young children, elderly individuals, or immunocompromised family members. Activity may be restricted during initial recovery to conserve energy for healing, with gradual return to normal exercise as strength improves.

Several factors influence the prognosis for dogs with salmonellosis. Age plays a significant role, with puppies and senior dogs facing higher complication risks than healthy adults. Immune status affects both initial severity and recovery capability, with immunocompromised dogs requiring more intensive treatment and experiencing slower recovery. The specific Salmonella serovar can influence disease severity and treatment response. Promptness of veterinary care significantly impacts outcomes, with early intervention preventing serious complications. Overall, the prognosis for salmonellosis in immunocompetent dogs receiving appropriate care is generally good, though mortality can occur in severe cases or vulnerable individuals.

Long-term outlook for most dogs recovering from salmonellosis is excellent, with full return to normal health expected. However, some important considerations apply to recovered dogs. Carrier status may persist in some individuals, with intermittent bacterial shedding continuing for weeks to months after clinical recovery. This has implications for household hygiene and potential transmission to other animals or humans. Recurrence is possible with re-exposure to contaminated sources, making dietary and environmental management important ongoing considerations. Some dogs may develop chronic gastrointestinal sensitivity following infection, requiring long-term dietary management. Regular veterinary checkups help monitor for any lasting effects and address concerns as they arise.

Primary prevention of salmonellosis centers on reducing exposure to Salmonella bacteria through careful food handling and environmental management. Feeding high-quality commercial diets from reputable manufacturers that follow strict safety protocols minimizes contamination risk. If raw diets are chosen, sourcing from suppliers with rigorous testing protocols and handling raw meat with the same precautions used for human food preparation reduces risk. Treating raw food preparation surfaces, utensils, and feeding bowls with appropriate sanitizers helps prevent bacterial persistence in the environment. Storing dog food properly, including refrigerating opened canned food and keeping dry food in sealed containers, prevents contamination and bacterial growth.

There is no vaccine currently available to prevent salmonellosis in dogs, making management practices the primary preventive strategy. Unlike some other bacterial diseases, immunization against Salmonella is not practical due to the numerous serovars that can cause disease. Responsible breeding practices do not directly influence salmonellosis risk since the condition is not hereditary. However, breeders should maintain strict hygiene in whelping areas and avoid exposing puppies to potentially contaminated food sources or environments. Puppies from facilities with proper sanitation practices start life with lower infection risk.

Nutritional management plays a role in salmonellosis prevention and in supporting immune function to resist infection. Feeding appropriate amounts to maintain healthy body weight supports overall immune competence. Avoiding feeding raw or undercooked meat, eggs, and animal-derived treats significantly reduces exposure risk. Supervising dogs outdoors to prevent scavenging, hunting, and consumption of wildlife or their feces eliminates major infection sources. Providing clean, fresh water and preventing access to potentially contaminated water sources such as puddles, ponds, or areas where wildlife congregate reduces environmental exposure. Some evidence suggests probiotic supplementation may provide competitive exclusion against pathogenic bacteria.

Regular veterinary care supports salmonellosis prevention through overall health maintenance and early problem detection. Annual wellness examinations allow veterinarians to assess immune function and identify conditions that might increase infection susceptibility. Keeping dogs current on vaccinations prevents other diseases that could compromise immunity. Appropriate parasite control reduces concurrent infections that might weaken defenses against bacterial pathogens. Prompt veterinary attention for any gastrointestinal symptoms enables early intervention if infection does occur. Veterinary guidance on diet selection and feeding practices helps owners make informed decisions about nutrition.

Early intervention and awareness are key to preventing serious complications from salmonellosis. Pet owners should recognize early symptoms of gastrointestinal illness and seek prompt veterinary evaluation rather than waiting for severe symptoms to develop. Understanding the zoonotic potential of Salmonella encourages appropriate hygiene practices that protect both dogs and humans. Owners of dogs in high-risk categories, including puppies, seniors, and immunocompromised individuals, should be particularly vigilant about food safety and symptom monitoring. Communication with veterinarians about lifestyle factors, diet choices, and any concerning symptoms allows for individualized prevention recommendations and early treatment when needed.

Daily management during and after salmonellosis infection requires attention to hygiene, nutrition, and monitoring. Strict hygiene practices are essential, including prompt removal and disposal of feces, thorough handwashing after handling the dog or cleaning up waste, and regular sanitization of food and water bowls. Affected dogs should be kept separate from other household pets until cleared of infection to prevent transmission. Feeding schedules should provide small, frequent meals of appropriate bland or recovery diets as recommended by the veterinarian. Medication administration must follow prescribed schedules precisely, completing the full course of any antibiotics even after symptoms resolve. Daily monitoring of appetite, energy level, and stool quality helps track recovery progress.

Home environment modifications help support recovery and prevent disease transmission. Designating a specific area for the recovering dog simplifies containment and cleaning. Using washable bedding that can be laundered frequently in hot water removes bacterial contamination. Hard, non-porous flooring is easier to sanitize than carpet during the infectious period. Restricting access to furniture and beds that are difficult to clean reduces contamination spread. Ensuring good ventilation in the recovery area promotes comfort and reduces pathogen concentration. Child safety gates may be useful to restrict movement while allowing the dog to remain part of household activities.

Maintaining quality of life for dogs recovering from salmonellosis involves balancing rest with appropriate stimulation. While physical activity may be limited during acute illness, mental engagement through gentle interaction and low-key play supports emotional wellbeing. Comfortable bedding and a quiet recovery space allow adequate rest. As recovery progresses, gradually increasing activity prevents boredom while avoiding overexertion. Maintaining normal routines as much as possible provides comfort and reduces stress. Positive attention and reassurance help anxious dogs feel secure during illness. Once recovered, returning to normal activities and exercise supports physical and mental health.

Ongoing monitoring and veterinary communication are important throughout recovery and beyond. Keeping a log of symptoms, appetite, stool quality, and medication administration helps track progress and provides useful information for veterinary consultations. Knowing which changes warrant veterinary contact, such as worsening symptoms, failure to improve, or new concerning signs, enables timely intervention. Following up with recommended fecal testing confirms bacterial clearance and determines when isolation precautions can be relaxed. Long-term monitoring watches for any chronic gastrointestinal effects that might require dietary adjustment or additional treatment.

Caring for a dog with salmonellosis can be demanding, and caregiver support is important. Understanding the zoonotic risk allows appropriate precautions without excessive anxiety. Resources from veterinary professionals, reliable online sources, and support communities provide information and emotional support. Managing the financial aspects of treatment through planning and communication with veterinary staff about options helps reduce stress. Recognizing that recovery takes time and celebrating progress encourages patience during the healing process. Family members should share caregiving responsibilities and hygiene vigilance. If human family members develop gastrointestinal symptoms, prompt medical attention is important, with disclosure of the dog's diagnosis to healthcare providers.

Salmonellosis can affect dogs of any breed, as susceptibility relates more to immune status, age, and environmental factors than genetic predisposition. However, certain categories of dogs face elevated risk due to lifestyle factors common within their populations. Working dogs, hunting dogs, and those with outdoor lifestyles encounter more opportunities for exposure through contact with wildlife, environmental contamination, and consumption of prey animals. Sled dogs and racing dogs fed raw meat diets have documented higher Salmonella carriage rates. Dogs in shelter, kennel, or breeding facility environments experience increased exposure due to higher animal density and stress factors that compromise immunity.

Beyond breed, several individual factors increase salmonellosis risk. Puppies younger than six months have immature immune systems and developing gut microbiomes, making them more susceptible to infection and severe disease. Senior dogs, typically those over eight years, may have age-related immune decline increasing vulnerability. Dogs receiving immunosuppressive medications for conditions such as autoimmune disease, allergies, or organ transplants face heightened risk. Those with concurrent illnesses, particularly gastrointestinal conditions, have compromised defenses. Recently stressed dogs, whether from surgery, boarding, travel, or major life changes, show increased susceptibility.

Screening recommendations for salmonellosis differ from genetic conditions since the disease is infectious rather than inherited. Routine screening of healthy dogs is generally not recommended due to the high prevalence of asymptomatic carriage in the general dog population. Testing becomes appropriate when dogs show clinical signs consistent with salmonellosis or when there are public health concerns, such as human illness in the household. Dogs being introduced to households with immunocompromised individuals may benefit from screening. Breeding facilities and kennels may implement surveillance testing as part of disease prevention protocols. Working with veterinarians to understand individual risk factors helps determine appropriate monitoring strategies for specific dogs.

Several gastrointestinal conditions commonly occur alongside or as a consequence of salmonellosis. Secondary bacterial overgrowth in the intestines can develop as normal gut flora is disrupted. Concurrent parasitic infections may be present, as dogs with lifestyle factors predisposing them to Salmonella exposure often encounter intestinal parasites as well. Dehydration-related complications including acute kidney injury can occur when fluid losses are severe or prolonged. Reactive arthritis occasionally develops following intestinal Salmonella infection, causing joint inflammation days to weeks after gastrointestinal symptoms. Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease may experience salmonellosis superimposed on their chronic condition, complicating management.

Other bacterial gastrointestinal infections share similar symptoms with salmonellosis and may co-exist or cause diagnostic confusion. Campylobacteriosis produces comparable diarrhea and vomiting with zoonotic potential. Clostridial infections, particularly Clostridium perfringens and Clostridium difficile, cause acute gastrointestinal illness that mimics salmonellosis. Escherichia coli infections can produce severe bloody diarrhea in dogs. Leptospirosis, while primarily affecting kidneys and liver, can include gastrointestinal symptoms. The overlap in clinical presentation makes laboratory testing important for accurate diagnosis, as treatment approaches and public health implications may differ among these conditions.

Complications from salmonellosis can lead to secondary conditions requiring additional treatment. Septicemia develops when bacteria breach the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing multi-organ effects. Abscess formation in abdominal organs represents localized bacterial infection requiring drainage. Chronic carrier status may develop in some dogs, with persistent intermittent bacterial shedding even after clinical recovery. Intestinal damage during acute infection may result in chronic intestinal sensitivity or malabsorption issues. Recognizing these potential complications ensures appropriate monitoring and prompt intervention if secondary conditions develop, optimizing long-term outcomes for affected dogs.