Zomdog

Zomdogs, also known as zogs, zoggies, zounds, or several other increasingly stupid names, are dogs which have been infected with Rumavec. A dog which was born with the virus is said to have Lifelong Canine Rumase-Associated Illness (LCRAI, "el-cee-rai"), while one that acquired it after birth is said to have Acquired Canine Rumase-Associated Illness (ACRAI, "eh-cee-rai").
It was not known that the Z-virus could infected dogs for several years. As such, efforts to reduce the virus largely ignored the stray dogs wandering about San Francisco or other parts of the Bay Area. Over time the virus spread through domestic populations, dog parks, puppy schools, and the like.
A smaller number of zomdogs have been bred intentionally by infected, who find that the shared phenomenal connection leads to easier communication between the two species. Zomdogs are thus easier to train (provided the trainer is a symptomatic zeitgabberim) than their non-infected counterparts, although breed and temperament are still a major factor.
Zomdogs can be trained to detect the onset of a rumaleptic seizure. An accreditation scheme is underway to have training developed at Licentia be formally accepted as a legitimate service dog training program, granting the dogs and their hyperruemia-striken owners protected rights.

Basic Information

Genetics and Reproduction

Zomdogs tend to have smaller litters and a higher mortality rate than non-infected dogs of similar breeds.

Dietary Needs and Habits

As with zeitgabberim, zomdogs have a strong affinity for meat. However, they cannot make use of "the cannibalism cure" and may not require meat for survival. That said, raising non-infected dogs as vegan is already somewhat controversial, so this has not been extensively tested.

Scientific Name

Canis lupis familiaris

Origin/Ancestry

Several good boys

Lifespan

About 40% longer than breed average assuming no cancers

Conservation Status

While regularly put down in non-infected locales, zomdogs are largely tolerated (even welcomed and purposely bred by some) in Licentia.