Tates Creek Animal Hospi-tales

Canine Influenza: What do I need to know?
Canine influenza is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by a “flu” virus. In dogs, a highly contagious strain of the influenza A virus known asH3N8 is able to cause respiratory illness. Other strains of the influenza A virus are responsible for causing infections in birds, horses, pigs and people. Canine influenza virus ONLY affects dogs.
Currently now 30 states have reported canine influenza, including Kentucky. The earliest reported case was March 2003 in Florida.

How contagious is canine influenza?
Just like human “flu”, canine influenza is highly contagious. In fact, unless a dog has already had the illness and recovered, virtually every dog exposed to the virus will become infected. This is because the virus is relatively new, and dogs have no natural immunity to it. While 100% of dogs are susceptible to influenza infection, about 80% of infected dogs will show signs of the infection. Dogs that do not show signs of the disease can still spread the virus to other dogs.

Since 2003, there have been numerous reports of influenza outbreaks in veterinary clinics, kennels and shelters. Some of these outbreaks were traced back to the presence of one sick dog that spread the virus throughout the facility and infected many other dogs.

How is it spread?
It is spread the same way human flu spreads-through direct contact (kissing, licking, nuzzling); through the air (coughing or sneezing); and via contaminated surfaces (such as when a person picks up the virus on their hands or clothing , then touches or pets a dog.) Spread can also occur if the same person touches and contaminates another surface-a doorknob, for example.

What are the signs of canine influenza?
The most common sign of canine influenza is a persistent cough. Some dogs have a soft, moist, “productive” cough, while others have a dry cough similar to that seen in dogs with kennel cough-a respiratory condition that is caused by any number of other viruses and bacteria. It’s this similarity to kennel cough that makes it hard for veterinarians to diagnose which illness your dog has.
About 80% of dogs who show signs of influenza will have a mild disease. Signs in this case include a low-grade fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy, loss of appetite, and a cough that can last for up to a month. In 20% of the cases, more severe signs will occur, such as a high fever (104-106 degrees F) and pneumonia. A small number of dogs infected with the virus have died from complications associated with the disease.
Canine Influenza is hard to diagnose. Blood collections and nasal swabs can be falsely negative due to the timing of the samples and the stage of disease. If your dog has a history of being exposed to other dogs with the possibility of Canine influenza, it is reasonable of suspect your dog has something more than ordinary kennel cough.

Is your dog at risk?
Most dogs are at risk however certain activities can raise your dog’s risk of infection even higher. Does your dog come from a shelter, breeding kennel or pet store? Do you board at a kennel or go to doggie daycare? Does your dog attend group training sessions? Does your dog go to the groomers, dog parks or engage with other dogs on daily walks or visits? Is your pet a show dog or agility dog and entering events? Does your dog come into contact with other dogs in the waiting room of our vet clinic?

If you answered “yes” to one or more of these questions tell us so we can protect your dog from canine influenza.

What is the treatment for canine influenza?
Currently there is no specific treatment plans, except supportive care such as good diet , lots of rest and maintaining good hydration to help your dog’s body fight the infection. A little extra tender loving care can go a long way too! If the disease becomes complicated with second bacterial infections your dog may be giving antibiotics. Human “flu” products have not been studied or approved for use in dogs with canine influenza.

How can I protect my dog?
Recently, a new canine influenza vaccine-the first of its kind- was approved for use in the US. The Canine Influenza Vaccine, H3N8 has been clinically proven to significantly reduce the severity of the influenza and the length of time that a dog is sick. The initial vaccination requires 2 doses, 204 weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination. We can advise you whether this new influenza vaccine should be added to your dog’s vaccination schedule.

Keep your dog in good general health. Well nourished and well cared for pets have a stronger immune system to help fight off infection. If you must board, make sure the facility is clean and well maintained. Please keep your dog on a leash in the lobby of the hospital and away from other pets,  while your pet may love to socialize, direct contact with sick dogs here to see the doctor may not be a wise idea. Our staff cleans every room after every visit and thoroughly washes their hands before handling each patient, regardless if the pet shows signs of any illness or not. We will help you protect your dog from canine influenza.