Winter Health Concern

THE CANINE FLU

Recently I took one of my fur puppy clients to the vet for a routine check up.  There was a sign out front about canine flu shots.  Canine flu shots are new to me, but it reminded me of a time when I was 12.  The Asian flu was pandemic that year and my mom didn’t get out of bed for about two weeks, she was so sick. That particular flu strain was particularly contagious and several of my mother’s friends died after exposure to the flu.

I  received a Siamese kitten for my birthday and Masie was only a kitten and full of mischief.  She got into my mom’s trash of used tissues whenever she could sneak into the bedroom.  Shortly thereafter Masie died of complications to a flu like respiratory condition.  I was doing some reading this morning and came across this article that I want to share.  Like humans, not all dogs need all vaccinations, that is up to the pet parent to decide, based on the dogs present state of health and lifestyle.  I’m only sharing information to raise awareness..

As a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), I have a great source of information available to share with pet parent.  The article I read is about the dog flu, which is causing many concerned pet parents to leave their pets in the safety of their own homes. Dog flu, also known as canine influenza causes respiratory problems in canines.  It may take up to ten 10 days for a dog to show symptoms that may include coughing, sneezing, fever, nasal discharge, lethargy and loss of appetite. Severity increases with the development of pneumonia and may lead to death, though the percentage of dogs that die is very small.  The influenza virus is spread by droplets when the dog coughs or sneezes, and by contact with contaminated objects.  Humans can carry the influenza virus on their clothes for up to 48 hours. If you are exposed, change your clothes before coming in contact with another dog to prevent spreading the illness. Dog owners should wash their hands after contact with any dog. Exposure to infected dogs in shelters, kennels and daycare facilities spreads the infection.  So far, no human infections with canine influenza have ever been reported.

Canine influenza A H3N8 originated in horses, spread to dogs and between dogs, and is now considered dog-specific.  The H3N2 virus originated in birds in South Korea, China and Thailand, and may infect cats, but not humans.

Tests to confirm canine influenza are available.  There is an approved vaccine to protect dogs from influenza A H3N8, though it is not known whether it will protect against the H3N2 virus.  Pet parents must discuss these options with their veterinarian, depending on the age, health of your pet and his or her exposure to other dogs.  Treatment is supportive, with plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

Pet parents would do well to keep up to date on the latest news of the dog flu outbreak and to contact a veterinarian if they have questions or concerns. 

                                 Reprinted by permission NAPPS www.napps.org