Pet Care Library

Canine Flu

Canine Flu is Here

The canine flu is working its way into our area of Texas. This flu originated back in 2003 as it passed from Equines to Racing Greyhounds.

 

High risk "dog groups" are animals that participate in boarding, dogs that live in and or around rescued canines.  Pets that routinely go to the dog park or any other "social" area for dogs are at high risk.  However, the flu bug can live, unseen, on concrete surfaces for 48 hours and on clothing for 12 hours! So, essentially, any dog is at risk.   

 

The Canine flu, or CIV, is a brand new virus to dogs. Thus, canines have no natural immunity to this illness.  100% of all dogs that come into contact with this virus will become infected when exposed. 

 

Krum Veterinary Hospital is now carrying the only vaccine to guard your dog against the canine flu. One booster 2 to 4 weeks after the initial vaccination will be required to ensure proper immunity. 

 

Symptoms of the Canine Flu

The canine flu will present with a cough, runny nose and runny eyes.  A dog will have a low grade fever as well.  Occasional dogs will develop pheumonia, which can end in death or long-term pulmonary damage.

 

The H3N8 virus actually "sheds" from a dog before flu like symptoms actually appear. This is the reason it is very importaint to keep your dog away from areas where they could come into contact with strange dogs or high populations of other dogs.  Areas like stores where you can take your dog along with you or dog parks are places of high risk. 

 

The H3N8 virus can live for 48 hours on concrete and 12 hours on clothing!

 

Sadly there is no "cure" for the canine flu--only supportive care just like the people flu. H3N8 does have an 8% mortality rate.  The largest fear, for dogs who do survive this flu and pneumonia, is permanent lung damage.  H3N8 can leave up to 75% of your dog's lungs covered with lesions.  These lesions will restrict activities & mobility up to years after the flu has struck and been succesfully treated. 

 

Vaccine "Tid Bits"

 

The H3N8 vaccine has been tested on a wide variety of breeds, both large & small.

 

To date the vaccine has been 100% reaction free.

 

This vaccine is safe for dogs 6 weeks and older. 

 

Remember the vaccine will need to be boostered 2 to 4 weeks after the initial vaccination. 

 

Please call our office to schedule your dog's flu shot if he or she is in an at-risk category. 

 

An office exam is not necessary and our technicians can administer this vaccine to your dog. Give us a call and let us know if you want to set a technician appointment up!

 

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