Canine Influenza is Back
With the warmer weather making its appearance, we are now able to spend more quality time outside with our pets; however, being outdoors also increases our dog’s risk for Canine Influenza.
What is Canine Influenza?
Canine Influenza, also known as the “Dog Flu”, is a virus that is easily transmitted from dog to dog. Dogs that actively carry the virus can spread it to other dogs through direct contact with their infected respiratory secretions; this means that the virus can be easily spread between dogs through barking, coughing, and sneezing. The virus can contaminate any objects that it has come in contact with. To help reduce spreading the Canine Flu virus- all clothing, surfaces, and objects that have come in contact with a dog that exhibits symptoms of a cold or flu- should be avoided and be properly sterilized. Any dog that possesses flu-like symptoms should be kept from socializing with other dogs. Symptoms of the virus include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, sore throat and/or loss of appetite. Dogs who contract the virus will usually feel sick for a couple of weeks. Any dog that possesses flu-like symptoms should be kept from socializing with other dogs for two weeks.
How can you keep your dog protected?
There is now a Canine Influenza vaccine, readily available at South Town Animal Hospital, that protects against the the current flu strain, H3N2.
Is your dog at risk?
Please answer the questions below to find out if your dog is at risk for Canine Influenza.
1. Does your dog board at any boarding facilities?
2. Will he or she be going to the groomer?
3. Will you be bringing your dog to any dog parks?
4. Does your dog socialize with other dogs?
5. Are you around other dogs that can make you a carrier of the virus?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions- your dog may be at risk for contracting canine influenza. Our veterinarians recommend getting your pet vaccinated.
Would you like more information?
Give us a call and we can help analyze your pet’s lifestyle to determine if your dog is at risk.
Please call us at 847-695-7387
or
e-mail us at info@southtownhosp.wpengine.com
