What “infectious hepatitis” means
This disease is caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). It can affect the liver and other organs and spread through contact with infected secretions or excretions. Signs vary and may include fever, lethargy, abdominal pain, vomiting and clotting abnormalities. Some dogs develop cloudiness of the cornea.
The word hepatitis describes inflammation of the liver; by itself, it does not identify this infection. Liver problems can have other causes and need specific assessment.
Why a record may mention adenovirus type 2
Vaccines containing canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), used in canine combinations, also provide protection against CAV-1 infectious hepatitis. This does not mean they prevent every liver disease. The veterinarian reviews the product recorded and the dog’s history when considering composition and schedule.
Vaccination is preventive; it does not replace diagnosis or treatment for a sick animal.
Bring the product name, not only an abbreviation
If you want to review your dog’s vaccination, bring the record with its dates, labels and notes. An abbreviation can be difficult to interpret without context. Try to make sure photos show the whole page and identify which pet it belongs to.
Note what you want to resolve: protection from an earlier vaccine, missing documents or planning a visit. If your dog already has a liver diagnosis, mention it when requesting care and keep the available reports; do not replace them with an interpretation of the disease name.
When not to wait for a scheduled visit
A dog with bleeding, severe lethargy or rapid deterioration needs immediate assessment at a veterinary centre. Reinavet works by appointment and does not provide emergency home care. Availability for a preventive visit is confirmed through the contact channels.
Related reading
See the canine combination vaccine and the canine leptospirosis guide, another disease that can affect the liver but has a different cause.
Source
Merck Veterinary Manual: Infectious Canine Hepatitis. Accessed 20 October 2026. Educational content; it does not establish an individual diagnosis.