The Canine Flu
What you need to know about the H3N8 virus
 





The canine flu (H3N8) is a form of a respiratory infection. It is canine-specific and cannot be passed to humans. Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is emerging as the newest threat to canine respiratory health. This disease first appeared in March 2003 at a greyhound racetrack and has quickly spread across the United States. The latest data has reported outbreaks in 30 states. The virus is now enzootic in many communities in Colorado, Florida, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Canine influenza is still a relatively new disease and most dogs have not developed any immune protection against it, so virtually every naive dog exposed to it will become infected.

Symptoms:
 80% of CIV-infected dogs will develop clinical  signs of disease, including fever, nasal discharge, lethargy, loss of appetite and a wet persistant cough that may last for weeks. Dogs that do not show signs of disease can still spread the virus to other dogs. 1 in 5 dogs will progress to a severe infection including pneumonia and in rare cases death. CIV starts shedding 24 hours after infection and disappears around day 10. The virus can live up to 48 hours on surfaces including clothing, concrete, flooring, etc...under the right circumstances. Symptoms can last up to 10 days.

Who is at risk?

Most dogs regardless of breed or age, are at risk for canine influenza. However, certain venues and activities can raise your dog's risk of infection even higher. Review this list to see if any of these places or activities apply to your pet.

-Dogs who attend boarding kennels
-Dogs who go to grooming salons
-Dogs who attend day care
-Dogs who socialize at dog parks
-Dogs who are shown at dog shows
-Animal shelters, adoption groups, pet stores, veterinary clinics
-Dogs that travel via airplane, train, etc in the United States and abroad
 


If your dog is at risk call and ask what can be done to protect him or her from canine influenza. You may set up an appointment to have your dog vaccinated. The initial vaccine requires 2 doses to be boostered in 3-4 weeks followed by an annual revaccination. If you have any questions feel free to contact any of our hospitals. We will be happy to discuss any of your concerns. If your pet is having any symptoms of this virus, please isolate him from other dogs and contact our office.

For more information: www.doginfluenza.com