Canine Influenza (Dog Flu)
Facts, Myths and Preventative Measures for You and Your Dog
by Mandy Evans
We like to think at My Special Dog that you can turn to us for answers without us dancing on your emotions by offering a myriad of hyped up information to create hysteria. This is what the media has been doing when it comes to information on the new Canine Flu. Not to discredit the new disease (it is dangerous) but the numbers of deaths have been grossly exaggerated for the purpose of the media. It has also been widely published due to the recent issues with the Bird Flu virus and our human flu season about to begin. So far there is no proof the Canine Flu can be contracted by humans.
What is it?
Canine Influenza, also known as the Canine Flu is a newly identified disease affecting dogs. The disease does not discriminate by breed and has similar signs to Canine Cough better known as Kennel cough. The symptoms are coughing and gagging for up to three weeks with possible fevers as high as 106°. Nasal discharge may be seen and the dog might act more subdued, seem depressed or lack his usual energy. Coughing may increase due to exercise or excitement.
How it is spread?
This virus spreads most readily in canine gathering environments such as kennels but can be spread "on the street". Since dogs do not have a natural immunity to this virus it is likely every dog exposed could be infected. Since this disease is new, the amount of information is mostly presumptions based on what immunologists know now. It is said approximately 80 percent of all dogs exposed will show signs of the disease with a fatality rate between 1 and 10%.
What to do?
If you are concerned about the virus and you would like to know more, we suggest you speak with your vet. If you think your dog is showing signs of the Canine Flu, early action is important. Within 72 hours after the signs develop in your dog take him to your veterinarian and ask for a nasal swab. Nasal swabs may be submitted to a veterinary pathologist for evaluation and virus isolation.
After the first 72 hours the virus isolation can no longer be done and your vet will need to do a blood work up. Any dog that displays a persistent coughing, hacking or gagging should be evaluated by a veterinarian, but keep in mind these symptoms are similar to many other disorders and should be appropriately evaluated. Remember, this information is not meant for the purpose of diagnosis but to educate you on new information. It is imperative you rely on your vet to gain proper information on your dog's health.
Since viruses are not usually affected by antibiotics used against bacterial infections, the treatment for Canine Flu is supportive care; depending on the case this may mean hospitalization and IV fluids. The good news is Scientists are already at work studying this disease and if this infection continues to spread, an immunization will be a reality.