Canine Influenza Update
As you all have probably heard by now, Canine Influenza (CIV) has been positively diagnosed in dogs from the Chicago Area. There are also cases in Indiana and Iowa. Good Morning America reported today that there is one positive case in Milwaukee. Since this is a relatively new virus, almost all dogs are susceptible to infection when they are exposed because they have not built up natural immunity.
Most infected dogs show only mild symptoms, but some dogs become very sick and require veterinary treatment. Most common clinical signs include lethargy, anorexia, low-grade fever, nasal discharge, and cough. Dogs with more severe disease can present with a high fever and pneumonia.
What You Need to Know and Do:
- Canine influenza is highly infectious and the virus spreads very quickly from dog to dog.
- The virus spreads rapidly, especially at boarding facilities, groomers, doggy day care, dog parks and other spots where dogs co-mingle.
- CIV can be spread by direct contact with respiratory discharge from infected dogs, through the air via a cough, bark, or sneeze, and by contact with contaminated objects such as dog bowls and clothing, or by people moving between infected and uninfected dogs.
- To prevent the spread of the disease, wash your hands with soap and water or disinfect them with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after contact with dogs.
- Dog owners whose dogs are coughing or showing other signs of respiratory disease should not participate in activities or bring their dogs to facilities where other dogs can be exposed to the virus.
- Call your veterinarian immediately if your dog has the following symptoms:
- Coughing
- Discharge from the nose or eyes
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy/lack of energy
Canine influenza is NOT the same as Bordetella. If your dog is current on their Bordetella vaccine they are NOT protected against CIV.
There is a vaccine currently available for the Canine Influenza virus. It is an injectable vaccine that requires a booster in 2-4 weeks. Mukwonago Animal Hospital currently has the vaccine available. If you feel that your dog is at risk, please call to set up an appointment. The cost of the vaccine is $20.25 + office call for the first vaccine. Prepaying for the booster will waive the office call for the 2nd injection. Going forward the CIV vaccine is an annual injection.
Your friends at Mukwonago Animal Hospital