Neglected Causes of Canine Viral Enteritis: An overview

Abstract

Acute viral gastroenteritis has attained the status of a global problem affecting both animals and humans. The situation is quite worse in the developing world countries. With advancing knowledge several new viral agents showing zoonotic-origin have been identified. The role of companion animals in sharing pathogens to humans cannot be ignored. Like humans, the dogs are also prone to various infections. Although information is scanty, gastroenteritis is a primary menace to dogs. Till now, more commonly rotavirus and coronavirus are being reported as the cause of diarrhea. In-depth molecular epidemiological studies using state-of-art tools have shown emergence and spread of new viruses to larger geographical areas and in new animal host species. Nonetheless, viruses like astrovirus, picobirnavirus, kobuvirus, circovirus, etc. being reported in dogs, their epidemiological profile, and impact remains under-estimated and underreported. Here, we have discussed the neglected gastroenteritis viruses of dogs which could pose a threat for zoonotic transfer.