Initially the virus affects the tonsils and larynx causing a sore throat, coughing and occasionally pneumonia. As it enters the bloodstream it can affect the eyes, liver and kidneys. The clear portion of the eyes, called the cornea, may appear cloudy or bluish. This is due to edema within the cell layers forming the cornea. Unvaccinated dogs of all ages are at risk, however the disease is most prevalent in patients less than one year of age.
Death can result as soon as two hours after the initial signs.
Death can be so sudden it may appear as if the patient was poisoned. There is no specific treatment for infectious canine hepatitis. Intravenous fluids and supportive care are indicated. Fortunately, excellent vaccines are available to immunize puppies as well as adults. The vaccines may contain adenovirus type 1 or type 2.