Recognizing Dog Flu
November 20, 2009 by Paris and John
Filed under Health, Tips
This is the year of flu worries…not just for ourselves but for our dogs as well. Whether you call it H3N8, the Dog Flu or canine influenza, this highly contagious flu (not to people, solely dogs) has been identified in more than 30 states so far.
How It’s Spread: The flu can be spread dog to dog or by contaminated objects–and we can unknowingly pass it from an infected dog to a healthy dog.
Who’s At Risk: Dogs at highest risk are are those in kennels, boarding facilities, animal shelters, dog shows, and others in close proximity to other dogs. “If your dog is exposed to another dog that has the canine influenza virus, it is highly likely your dog will come down with the dog flu,” says Dr. William H. Craig, DVM, Chief Medical and Underwriting Director of PurinaCare Pet Health Insurance. “Pet owners whose dogs are coughing or showing other signs of respiratory disease should not participate in activities or bring their dogs to facilities where other dogs can be exposed to the virus.”
Dog Flu Symptoms:
- Symptoms are similar to “kennel cough” (which is caused by the Bordetella organism, not the H3N8 virus)
- Fever
- An unproductive dry cough
- Runny nose
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
“Dogs with canine influenza symptoms should receive prompt veterinary attention to determine the best treatment,” says Craig. “If the symptoms are left untreated they can cause death.” The most serious consequence of dog flu is development of secondary bacterial pneumonia. Dog Flu Treatments:
- Intravenous fluid and electrolyte replacement
- Diuretic drugs that remove fluid from the lungs
- Broad spectrum antibiotics
- Cough suppressant to reduce tracheal inflammation that may lead to bacterial infection
Dog Flu Vaccine: There is a canine influenza vaccine available–should your dog take it? It would not be included in most dogs’ annual core vaccine regimen but, for high-risk animals it may be warranted. Dogs should receive one vaccine, followed by a second dose two to four weeks later. Ideally, they should receive the vaccine series at least one week before entering a high-risk environment, such as the shelter or boarding facility. Your veterinarian can help determine whether the canine influenza vaccine is appropriate for your pet.
For More Information:
- Dog Flu: http://pethealthlibrary.purinacare.com/dog-flu
- Swine Flu in Pets: http://pethealthlibrary.purinacare.com/swine-flu
Photo courtesy PurinaCare Pet Health Insurance
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