In the Merzig-Wadern district, a hunting dog tested positive for Aujeszky's disease (AK). As the State Office for Consumer Protection (LAV) announced, this is the first confirmed autumn of the current year. The dog was probably infected through contact with wild boars and had to be euthanized due to the severe symptoms. The incident once again highlights the danger posed to dogs by the disease, also known as pseudo-anger.
Aujeszky's disease is caused by Suides Herpesvirus 1 (SHV-1) and is always fatal to dogs. The virus is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected wild boars or consumption of contaminated raw pork. Typical symptoms in dogs include fever, extreme itching and paralysis, which quickly lead to death. While wild boars often remain asymptomatic, they are considered the main carriers of the pathogen. Domestic pigs in Saarland are still free of the disease, but wild boars throughout the state show widespread antibodies against AK.
The LAV calls on hunters and dog owners to be careful. Dogs should never be given raw wild boar meat or offal, and direct contact with wild boars or carcasses should be avoided at all costs. Hunters are also asked to follow hygiene measures such as cleaning footwear and equipment to prevent the disease from spreading to livestock. Walkers should keep their dogs on a leash in the forest to protect them from possible dangers.
Aujeszky's disease is harmless to humans, but the incident in Merzig shows how important prevention is to limit the spread of the virus. The current case highlights the importance of taking strict precautions to protect both pets and wild animals from this disease. Subscribe to the Blue Light Report Saarland WhatsApp channel NOW and ALWAYS stay up to date directly (click here)
