Canine Influenza
What is Canine Influenza?
Canine Flu or Dog Flu is a fairly new emerging respiratory disease-affecting dogs of all ages. This flu is characterized in two forms. The mild form, which is most common, begins 2-4 days after initial exposure.
Is it a new disease?
Yes, this is a new disease in dogs so they have no immunity to it.
Where did it come from?
It appears to be a mutation of the equine influenza virus. The disease was first identified in racing greyhounds in Florida in
2004. It has now been confirmed in pet dogs in 25 states. Unfortunately all dogs are susceptible to this infection and no immunity protecting them At this point all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected. 80% of these dogs will show some clinical signs, most of which will be mild
Is it contagious to other dogs?
It is a highly contagious viral disease
Are puppies and older dogs more susceptible?
There is no age predisposition.
How can we keep our dogs safe from this flu?
The prevention of the canine flu involves careful screening of dogs coming into kennel situations. Any dog exhibiting clinical signs of a respiratory infection should be placed in a quarantine area so that other dogs do not become exposed. Alternatively, they should not be allowed into the kennel situation. The virus itself is easily killed by most disinfectants. Keeping all surfaces clean and having good airflow in kennels will also help control an outbreak.
Who is at risk?
Those boarding in kennels, shelters, animal hospital, dog shows and large breeding kennels where dogs are in close quarters.
Can humans catch it from our dogs?
No, it is not transmittable from dogs to humans.
How long does it take to recover?
Most cases resolve in 2-3 weeks. When there is pneumonia it can take up to 6 weeks to fully recover.
How can we keep our dogs safe from this flu?
The prevention of the canine flu involves careful screening of dogs coming into kennel situations. Any dog exhibiting clinical signs of a respiratory infection should be placed in a quarantine area so that other dogs do not become exposed. Alternatively, they should not be allowed into the kennel situation. The virus itself is easily killed by most disinfectants. Keeping all surfaces clean and having good airflow in kennels will also help control an outbreak.
Who is at risk?
Those animals that are boarding in kennels, shelters, animal hospitals, dog shows and large breeding kennels where dogs are in close quarters.
Can humans catch it from our dogs?
No, it is not transmittable from dog to humans.
How long does it take to recover?
Most cases resolve in 2-3 weeks. The severe form can last up to 6 weeks.
Can a dog carry the disease and pass it to other dogs without showing any signs or symptoms?
Technically yes. Some animals who become infected have mild clinical signs and may not appear ill.
Is there a period of time when dogs are more contagious?
Yes. Dogs are shedding the virus in bodily secretions for up to 2 weeks.
How do we treat it?
Since the dog flu is a viral disease there is no specific treatment. The treatment is strictly supportive, fluids are provided and antibiotic therapy is initiated if the dog has a secondary bacterial infection. Sometimes cultures are necessary in order to identify the bacteria and to chose the correct antibiotic. Those dogs with the severe form are intensively treated with intravenous fluids, antibiotics, oxygen support and bronchodilators.
What are the symptoms?
The dogs exhibit a dry, hacking cough or a soft, moist cough that persists for
10 30 days. Some dogs will develop a thick nasal discharge, which usually indicates a secondary bacterial infection. In the sever form, the dogs develop a fever of 104- 106 degrees and pneumonia. Dogs with pneumonia have difficulty breathing, are very lethargic and have decreased appetite. Many of these dogs require hospitalization with intensive antibiotic and supportive therapy.
Is it fatal?
It can be in 1-5% of infected dogs.
Could a dog have the Flu and recover without getting a formal diagnosis?
Definitely since clinical signs of the flu can be mild and are very similar to Kennel Cough, some dogs are not tested for the flu.
Will my dog have to be hospitalized? Probably not most dogs exhibit very mild clinical signs.
More serious cases , those with pneumonia, require specialized supportive care that includes IV fluids and antibiotics.
Is there any residual damage to the respiratory system after the dog recovers from this disease?
Usually not - only those dogs that develop pneumonia can have permanent lung damage.
Will it leave my dog more susceptible to respiratory diseases after a bout of Canine Flu?
Only if they are the unfortunate ones that have damage to their lungs from pneumonia.
Once my dog has had Canine Flu will he build up an immune response to it?
Technically yes, but since this is a new disease we don't know if the flu virus will mutate again.
Is there a vaccine?
At this time a vaccine is not available.
How is it diagnosed?
In order to diagnose the canine flu, a blood test is done to detect antibodies to the disease. The test involves two blood samples taken 2-3 weeks apart. If the dog is suffering from influenza, the antibody levels will rise. The testing for this disease is being performed at Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Center. Cornell University has been tracking this disease since it was first discovered.
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Dr. Ellen Leonhardt
Animal General
East Norwich
(516) 624-7500
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