Things You Should Know About Canine Influenza (The Dog Flu)

1. Canine Influenza in a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs.

2. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and occasional fever.

3. Nearly every dog exposed (80%) to the virus will become infected and ill.

4. While the death rate for Canine Influenza is low, secondary infections can be life threatening. Many cases will develop into pneumonia and cause much more damage to the dog, potentially life threatening damage.

5. No certain breed or age of dog is more susceptible than any other.

6. Canine Influenza is spread through airborne pathogens, caused from coughing/sneezing. Dogs that are boarded, groomed, or travel with their owners, are at a higher risk for contracting Canine Influenza.

7. Canine Influenza does not infect people, cats, or even birds.

8. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics for 2-4 weeks to prevent/treat secondary infection (like pneumonia). It is also important for the dog to stay hydrated and receive adequate nutrition from it's diet. Cough suppressants may sometimes be used to provide temporary relief.

9. Most importantly, there is now a vaccination available to help prevent further spread of Canine Influenza. It is recommended that dogs be vaccinated, and then given a booster vaccination two weeks later. The vaccine has been tested in over 700 dogs, with no side effects or safety issues. While the vaccination may not completely prevent the virus, it significantly reduces the severity of the infection, including the severity of damage caused to the lungs.

10. We now carry the vaccination and recommend that all of our canine patients be vaccinated. If you would like more information about Canine Influenza or would like to schedule an appointment to have your dogs vaccinated, please contact our office at 972-771-1113 during normal business hours.