Eliot Kaplan, DVM -
The canine flu (influenza) is a relatively new disease to affect dogs. It was first documented in January 2004 in some racing greyhound dogs in Florida. It is caused by an equine influenza virus that crossed over into dogs. It is not contagious to cats or people but highly contagious from dog to dog.
There have been no cases reported to have occurred anywhere in Canada, but recent outbreaks have been reported in Arizona, Iowa, Colorado, Rhode Island, New York, and Massachusetts. It is spread thru the air (aerosol) and by direct contact between dogs.
Persistent cough lasting up to 3 weeks, high fever, and runny nose are the common symptoms. There is no vaccine available. Treatment includes intravenous fluids and antibiotics. Most dogs (95%) fully recover.
If your dog begins to show the above symptoms, then book an appointment with your veterinarian. Especially if your dog has traveled to the U.S. recently. Symptoms usually appear within 5 days of exposure to the virus. |
