Canine influenza is a virus that poses a threat to the respiratory health of dogs in the U.S.Symptoms include a persistent cough, runny nose, watery eyes, lack of appetite and lethargy. The disease is usually mild however can progress to pneumonia in up to 20% of the cases. The virus is fatal in up to 8% of infected dogs.
Those at risk are dogs that come from a shelter, rescue center, breeder or pet store. Dogs that are boarded, attend daycare, training, dog parks or grooming facilities are at increased risk.
The flu vaccine has shown to be effective in decreasing the severity of clinical signs and the spread of the infection. It reduces the duration of clinical signs, viral shedding, and protects against the formation/severity of lung lesions. The vaccine is given twice, 2-4 weeks apart and then yearly as needed.
Should your pet become infected with the flu, there is no specific treatment/cure. Those that are severely affected may require hospitalization and supportive care such as intravenous fluid therapy and antibiotics.
To date, there is no evidence that the dog flu can be transmitted to humans.
Kim Simons DVM
West Boca Veterinary Center
www.westbocavet.com
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