Canine Influenza Con't

The death rate for dogs with canine flu is low. Up to 5% of victims will die from hemorrhagic pneumonia. Secondary pneumonia is the most life threatening complication. Symptoms of flu can include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite and a respiratory infection  with coughing and nasal discharge that may last a few weeks.  The flu is more dangerous in the very young or ill patients and those dogs that may already have compromised respiratory systems.

There is a new vaccine for Canine Influenza. This vaccine has shown to reduce the incidence and severity of lung lesions, as well as reduce the duration of coughing and viral shedding. The vaccine is administered as a series of 2 vaccines administered 3 weeks apart the first year, then an annual booster.

The vaccine won’t prevent your dog from contracting the flu, but it can reduce the duration and severity of his symptoms, which could ultimately curb the spread of the virus.

You should consider vaccinating for the flu if your pet has a lifestyle that would predispose them to exposure. This would include activities with other dogs, such as when boarding, playing in dog parks, doggie day care, grooming, or enrolled in group obedience classes. If your dog receives the Bordetella vaccine then they are probably in a risk group that would also be a candidate for the canine flu vaccine. 

We will continue to monitor this situation for our clients.