What is Mono?

Mono, short for mononucleosis, is a viral disease commonly found in humans but also has a canine variation. Mono in dogs is known as canine infectious mononucleosis caused by the canine herpesvirus-1 (CHV-1). Although different from human mononucleosis, mono in dogs has similar transfer mediums, such as body fluids, saliva, blood, and nasal secretions. But our main concern is whether dogs can get mono from humans and vice versa. Let’s explore the prospects in the following sections.

Can Dogs Get The Epstein-Barr Virus?

Not much was known about EBV infection in canines. A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and Penn’s Perelman School of Medicine tested whether the virus has transferred to man’s best friend after years of companionship. 

The researchers found that a small number of dogs had high levels of EBV proteins that looked similar to that of EBV in humans. This means a minimal number of dogs can get the Epstein-Barr Virus, but can dogs get mono?

The study report concludes, “….the researchers analyzed lymph nodes of dogs with and without B cell lymphoma. In two dogs with lymphoma, they were able to identify a portion of DNA very similar to a sequence in EBV. They found no evidence of the same DNA in the healthy dogs.”

To put it simply, dogs have shown signs of getting EBV; however, they can not get mono as humans do. The symptoms of the disease are not similar to those observed in humans.

Can Dogs Get Mono From Humans

Mononucleosis or Kissing Disease has minimal chances of transfer from humans to dogs; as dog veterinarian Dr. Gooma explains, “Mono can be transmitted from humans to the dog, but very highly unlikely it will happen. Humans can get mono from dogs, but it’s highly unlikely that a dog would give you mono.”

Simply put, dogs can not get mono, at least not like humans do. While the studies above showed that canines can carry Epstein-Barr Virus, they rarely show symptoms of mononucleosis. Why is that, you might ask? This is because the EBV can not target the B cells in canines as in humans. However, dogs carrying EBV can still show signs of health issues that sometimes may look like the symptoms of kissing diseases.

Can You Get Mono From A Dog?

Can dogs get mono from humans? No! What about the reverse, then? Can humans get mono from dogs? Based on expert opinion and research, there is a high chance of you getting mono from your dog. There are several reasons for this, such as,

• Dog carries EBV: If your dog has been exposed to the Epstein-Barr Virus before adoption or during birth, it can transfer the virus to you. Kissing and nuzzling around your dog’s face are common ways of virus transfer. Once you get the virus, you start showing symptoms of the illness. However, like many other people, the symptoms might not be apparent even when the virus has successfully contaminated your B Cell.s
• One of your family members has mono: If anyone in your family has mono and cuddles or interacts with your dog, especially with physical touch, there are high chances of germ transfer to the dog. Later, if a healthy person touches the same dog, they might get the germs as well as the disease.

 A pet owner describes her concern: “My daughter has mono and is cuddling with our dog. My husband is worried that she will get her mono germs on our dog, and then if our dog cuddles with us, her mono germs will infect us from transmitting my daughter’s mono germs. Is this possible?”

 Simply put, this is possible, so it is advised not to kiss your dog or let it lick your face. Fluids, especially saliva, can lead to EBV transfer, resulting in Kissing disease.

Symptoms of Mononucleosis

The symptoms of human mononucleosis and canine mononucleosis are similar to a great extent. In dogs, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), and fever are commonly associated with mono. Respiratory issues and enlarged lymph nodes are typical signs of viral infections and can usually lead to extreme discomfort in dogs.

Treatment of Mononucleosis

Canine infectious mononucleosis does not have a specific antiviral treatment, though it can be treated and cured with the following treatment plan. 

• Isolation and Rest: CHV-1 infection can cause lethargy and weakness in dogs, which can reduce their energy levels. Proper rest and a balanced diet can help restore your pet’s energy and aid with rapid recovery. Moreover, given the contagious nature of the disease, it is essential to isolate your dog from other pets and animals to prevent the infection from spreading.
• Fluid Therapy: Just as in humans, fluid therapy benefits dogs with mono. The provision of clean water is crucial, as it helps with fever and appetite loss. In case of severe fever, intravenous or subcutaneous fluids may be administered as needed.
• Medications: Your veterinarian might prescribe medications to treat the symptoms of canine mono, such as fever, lymph node swelling, and body pain. It is essential not to use medicines without a prescription or prior consultation, as some chemicals may cause side effects and negatively affect canine health.