The Dog Flu
What You Need to Know to Keep Your Dog Safe
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| Keep your fuzzy pal safe and healthy |
You may have heard about the recent Dog Flu Outbreak in our area. And you may be a little confused as to what the Dog Flu is, how your dog can contract the Flu, Symptoms, and how to keep your Dog safe. You may have not even heard of the Dog Flu until recently. The main reason for this is that it is a new virus to our area. Well we are here to help clarify a few things for you.
What is the Dog Flu?
The Dog Flu or Canine Influenza is a highly contagious potentially deadly virus consisting of two main strains, H3N2 and H3N8. It may sound odd, but both of these strains mutated into what it is known for today as the Dog Flu. Originally the H3N2 strain originated from an Avian or Bird virus in Asia that evolved to infect dogs. Similarly the H3N8 strain arose from an equine or Horse stain and was first identified in dogs in 2004 in the state of Florida. Although there is no evidence that it can spread to humans, it has been known to infect cats.
How Can My Pet Get the Flu and What are the Symptoms?
Canine Influenza is highly contagious and is transmitted though respiratory secretions, such as saliva and nasal discharge. A dog can contract the virus from coming into contact with a sick dog or anything that an infected dog was around. Objects such as water bowls, leashes, toys, or bedding can be contaminated, but also less obvious things like peoples clothing that was around the infected dog. It is also airborne which makes it even easier to contract. It is best to keep sick dogs away from other dogs and disinfect everything that dog came in contact with. Symptoms of Canine Influenza consists of coughing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, lethargy, lack of appetite and fever. These symptoms can be mild to severe with progressive cases causing secondary infections including pneumonia. The more severe the symptoms get the more dangerous it is for your pet. Canine Influenza can be deadly in advanced cases. If your pet is exhibiting any of these symptoms please seek veterinary attention immediately.
How to Keep Your Pet Safe?
Vaccinate. The best way to protect your pet against this virus is to get your pet vaccinated. Especially if your dog is around other dogs at dog parks, boarding facilities, groomers, doggie day cares, etc. Or even if you plan on traveling with your pet. In 2017 there was a breakout in many US Southern States but it wasn't until recently that it was diagnosed in Michigan. Which means this virus is spreading making its way throughout the US and it is something we need to be prepared for and start protecting our pets against.
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| Doggie Day care is great for expelling energy and socialization but please make sure your pet is protected against diseases that other dogs may carry. |
Canine Influenza is highly contagious and is transmitted though respiratory secretions, such as saliva and nasal discharge. A dog can contract the virus from coming into contact with a sick dog or anything that an infected dog was around. Objects such as water bowls, leashes, toys, or bedding can be contaminated, but also less obvious things like peoples clothing that was around the infected dog. It is also airborne which makes it even easier to contract. It is best to keep sick dogs away from other dogs and disinfect everything that dog came in contact with. Symptoms of Canine Influenza consists of coughing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, lethargy, lack of appetite and fever. These symptoms can be mild to severe with progressive cases causing secondary infections including pneumonia. The more severe the symptoms get the more dangerous it is for your pet. Canine Influenza can be deadly in advanced cases. If your pet is exhibiting any of these symptoms please seek veterinary attention immediately.
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| If you suspect your dog may have the dog flu, contact your vet immediately |
How to Keep Your Pet Safe?
Vaccinate. The best way to protect your pet against this virus is to get your pet vaccinated. Especially if your dog is around other dogs at dog parks, boarding facilities, groomers, doggie day cares, etc. Or even if you plan on traveling with your pet. In 2017 there was a breakout in many US Southern States but it wasn't until recently that it was diagnosed in Michigan. Which means this virus is spreading making its way throughout the US and it is something we need to be prepared for and start protecting our pets against.
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| Protect your pet against the Dog Flu and other viruses by keeping them up to date on vaccines |
The Dog Flu is something we need to be well aware of as it is spreading to areas that it was never detected in before. Use caution when your dog is around other dogs or in areas where other dogs were. To be safe, vaccinate your dog to protect them against this spreading virus. And if you are noticing any symptoms call your Vet immediately. For more in depth information regarding the Dog Flu please visit https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/Pages/Canine-Influenza-Backgrounder.aspx
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