A Review of Campylobacter Infections in Dogs

Abstract

Campylobacter spp. are important bacterial enteropathogens that cause diarrhea in dogs with the predominant species being Campylobacter jejuni, C. helveticus, and C. upsaliensis. Although campylobacteriosis is subclinical in many dogs, some may develop moderate to mild enteritis. Puppies, kenneled dogs, and dogs with concurrent conditions are highly susceptible to Campylobacter-associated diarrhea. Diagnosis of suspected Campylobacter-associated diarrhea in dogs poses a challenge to veterinarians as the fecal enteric panels are costly, require technical knowledge, and are time consuming, however molecular approaches for diagnosing the Campylobacter spp. infections are becoming readily available and can help in accurate and fast diagnosis. Campylobacter spp. are amongst the prioritized human and animal pathogens with regards to antimicrobial resistance. The rise and spread of antimicrobial resistance threatens the effective treatment and control of Campylobacter infections. Multi-drug resistance Campylobacter spp. have been isolated from dogs therefore treatment should only be administered where necessary. In conclusion, understanding the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment and zoonotic potential of Campylobacter spp. will enable small animal practitioners include them among the differential diagnoses of diarrheic diseases in dogs.