We're all hearing reports about the H1N1 virus, daily. If we don't see it on the news, we read it in the paper, or we discuss it between ourselves on the phone. This year, the flu has taken center stage in our lives and all of us not only want to be prepared, we want to be safe.
That's why I thought it was important to write about canine influenza, something a few of us have heard of, but many have not. Over at the Pet Health Library, they have anextensive article on dog flu. Interestingly, they report that, "This is a disease of dogs, not of humans." It's a Type A influenza virus, it's very contagious, and is causes respiratory issues, as one would expect.
The article is quite detailed in its information, reporting that, "First discovered as a cause of severe respiratory illness in a group of racing grehounds in 2004, dog flu continues to be a threat to primarily groups of dogs held in close quarers, such as in breeding facilities, shelters, pet stores, et cetera."
Symptoms include a dry cough (similar to kennel cough), loss of appetite, lethargy, and for dogs with pre-existing heart and lung disease, this flu can be devastating. The good news is that the mortality rate is very low, less than 1%, and there is a vaccine available. This is not something that is included in most dogs' annual core vaccine visit, but is something we should mention when we're at the vet.
None of us want our dogs to get this flu, that's for sure! The vaccine can't prevent it, but it can shorten the time in which the dog is ill and help reduce symptoms. And, just as importantly, the vaccine will help protect our dogs that regularly interact with other dogs. If you walk your dog daily and encounter neighbor dogs, it's good to have that vaccine. Dogs that cavort and play in dog parks, would do well to be vaccinated, I think.
The Pet Health Library article is a good read. And, Dr. Larry has some words on this over at Scratchings & Sniffings, also. It's our job as good pet owners to be prepared - don't you think?
If you've experienced this, share with us. Reports are always useful and necessary, for the facts. But, stories are the things that resonate best.
