Canine SFTS: Symptoms, Transmission Routes, and Treatment & Prevention Strategies

Infection/ParasitesDiseasesMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) in dogs is a viral infection transmitted by ticks. We’ve compiled a comprehensive, evidence-based veterinary overview of its key symptoms—such as fever, low platelet counts, and bleeding tendencies—along with treatment and prevention strategies.

What is Canine SFTS?

A dog sitting on outdoor grass — risk of tick exposure

Canine SFTS (Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome) is an infectious disease caused by the SFTS virus entering the body through the bite of the Haemaphysalis longicornis tick, leading to a rapid decline in platelet and white blood cell counts. Because the disease progresses quickly, early detection is essential. If your dog exhibits fever, loss of appetite, and bleeding tendencies simultaneously, seek veterinary care within 24 hours. In Korea, cases primarily occur during the tick-active season from April to November, with dogs that spend more time outdoors at higher risk of infection.

Causes and Transmission Routes of the SFTS Virus

The SFTS virus, once classified differently, is now categorized as Dabie bandavirus, an RNA virus belonging to the Phenuiviridae family. The primary route of infection is through bites from ticks exposed to this virus, particularly the Haemaphysalis longicornis tick. Once attached to the skin, ticks typically remain firmly in place for 3 to 7 days while feeding on blood, during which time the virus can enter the bloodstream. Dogs that frequently walk in areas with high tick populations, such as mountains, forests, and grasslands, are especially at risk. Veterinary textbooks describe it as a zoonotic disease in which many livestock and wild animals are primarily exposed to the virus through tick bites, with cases of direct transmission to humans also reported.

Checklist of Key Symptoms of Canine SFTS

If you notice the following symptoms, suspect SFTS. Because the disease progresses rapidly, seek veterinary care immediately if multiple symptoms appear together.

Fever: A sudden, acute rise in body temperature above normal.

Loss of appetite: Refusal or significant decrease in consumption of usual food and treats.

Lethargy: Weakness and lack of energy, with no interest in walks and prolonged periods of lying down.

Vomiting and diarrhea: Gastrointestinal symptoms often occur concurrently.

Bleeding tendency: A sharp drop in platelets can lead to petechiae (pinpoint hemorrhages) on the gums and skin, bruising, and bloody or black, tarry stools.

Jaundice: Yellowing of the whites of the eyes, gums, or skin may also be present.

A lethargic, listless puppy — suspect SFTS symptoms

Seek Emergency Veterinary Care Immediately If These Symptoms Appear

If any of the following symptoms appear, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. A drop in platelet count to dangerous levels can lead to internal bleeding. • Pale gums or bleeding gums • Nosebleeds or bloody stool • A high fever above 40°C lasting more than 12 hours • Sudden collapse or inability to stand • Severe vomiting or diarrhea raising suspicion of dehydration

Diagnostic Methods for SFTS at the Veterinary Clinic

Diagnosing SFTS based on clinical symptoms alone is difficult, so testing is essential. If a blood test reveals low platelet and white blood cell counts, we strongly suspect a tick-borne infection. A definitive diagnosis is made through a PCR test that analyzes the SFTS virus’s genetic material in the blood. Even before results are available, treatment is often started immediately if the patient’s history of tick bites aligns with the symptoms. If you find a tick, do not remove it with your hands; instead, bring it to the clinic for identification.

Treatment Methods for Canine SFTS

There are currently no antiviral drugs approved for treating SFTS in dogs. Treatment focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms.

Fluid therapy: Corrects dehydration and maintains blood pressure and systemic circulation.

Blood and platelet transfusions: May be necessary if bleeding is severe or platelet levels drop to dangerous lows.

Concurrent antibiotics: Often prescribed to prevent secondary bacterial infections.

Hospitalization and monitoring: The dog remains hospitalized for repeated blood tests until vital signs stabilize.

A puppy receiving intravenous fluid therapy in a veterinary hospital ward

Home Care After Discharge

After discharge from hospitalization, careful monitoring at home is essential. • Check your pet’s temperature twice daily; contact the clinic immediately if it exceeds 38.5°C. • Ensure fresh water is always available for drinking. • Monitor urine and stool color daily—seek immediate veterinary care if blood is present in either. • Wear gloves to prevent your dog’s blood or saliva from coming into contact with your skin. • Avoid strenuous exercise for 2–3 weeks even after full recovery.

Owners Can Also Be Infected — Beware of Zoonotic Disease

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) can be transmitted to humans through the blood or secretions of infected dogs. When caring for your dog, always wear gloves and avoid touching their blood or secretions with bare or injured hands. If you develop symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, or loss of appetite while treating your dog, seek immediate medical attention at a nearby clinic.

SFTS Prevention — Tick Control Is the Most Effective Method

The most reliable way to prevent SFTS is to prevent tick bites.

Tick preventive medications: Use veterinarian-prescribed spot-on treatments or oral preventatives once a month on a regular schedule.

Post-outing checks: Carefully inspect the inside of the ears, between the toes, the armpits, and around the neck.

Adjust walking routes: Avoid bushes and piles of fallen leaves, and stick to paved paths.

If you find a tick: Do not try to remove it forcefully by hand; have it removed at an animal hospital.

A pet owner who carefully checks their dog for ticks after a walk

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a dog with SFTS always need to be hospitalized?

Hospitalization is necessary if platelet and white blood cell counts drop severely or if bleeding symptoms are present. In mild cases, management may involve outpatient treatment and home monitoring, but your veterinarian will determine the most appropriate approach based on blood test results.

Should I remove a tick right away at home if I find one?

Forcibly pulling a tick off with your fingers or regular tweezers can leave its body embedded in the skin or cause infected fluids to be pushed back into the dog, increasing the risk of disease transmission. It’s safer to use a specialized tick-removal tool or have it removed at a veterinary clinic. Even after removal, be sure to monitor your dog closely for 2–3 weeks.

Can SFTS in dogs be transmitted to humans?

Yes, SFTS is a zoonotic disease. It can be transmitted to humans through the blood or secretions of an infected dog. Always wear gloves when caring for the animal, and if you or other caregivers develop symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or muscle pain, seek medical attention immediately.

Which tick preventive product is the most effective?

Spot-on treatments and oral preventatives prescribed by a veterinarian offer the most reliable long-lasting protection. Over-the-counter shampoos and sprays, on the other hand, tend to have a shorter duration of effect. It’s best to consult with your vet to choose a product that’s appropriate for your dog’s weight and overall health.

Which month should you be most cautious of for SFTS?

Tick populations typically peak in spring and fall, and their active season can extend during warmer years. Therefore, it’s especially important to be vigilant during these seasons when tick activity increases. After outdoor activities, make sure to thoroughly check your pet for ticks and consistently use preventive treatments.

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References

[1] Kim KH, Yi J, Kim G, et al. Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, South Korea, 2012. Emerg Infect Dis. 2013;19(9):1486-1489.

[2] Matsuu A, Momoi Y, Nishiguchi A, et al. Natural severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus infection in dogs, South Korea. Vet Microbiol. 2019;231:115-121.

[3] Yoo JR, Heo ST, Park D, et al. Family Cluster of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus Infection in Jeju, South Korea. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2016;95(6):1416-1419.

[4] Greene CE (Ed.). Infectious Diseases of the Dog and Cat, 4th Edition. Elsevier Saunders, 2012.

[5] 질병관리청. 중증열성혈소판감소증후군(SFTS) 관리지침. 2023.