How To Avoid Dog Flu
Mar 11th, 2008 by Teri
How to Avoid Dog Flu — Canine Influenza
Dog Flu commonly known as the canine influenza virus is an airborne flu, highly contagious and spread by making contact with contaminated objects or other animals. Dog flu attacks the respiratory organ namely the lungs. Dog flu does not kill dogs however it can lead to pneumonia which can cause death.
Symptoms of Dog Flu:
Look for a fever above 101.5 degrees F which the normal temperature for a dog, and a runny nose, and a dry cough. Sometimes your dog may not have any symptoms and still have the virus. Other signs are lack of appetite, and lethargy and coughing.
The symptoms are similar to Kennel Cough; however in the last few years this flu type has spread from a horse to a dog and is identified as the H3N8 strain, transferable between different species of animals.
It is not easy to prevent your dog from contact with other dogs that possibly have influenza. You meet other pets at pet stores on a day to day basis, dog parks, and when you board your dog in a kennel they can contract a flu virus. Even bird droppings in a park or on a sidewalk can be infected with this virus, there fore keep your dog away from these mine fields of possible contamination from the flu virus.
If your dog does show signs of dog flu, keep them away from other dogs and visit your nearest holistic or regular veterinarian. Other preventive measure include keeping your home germ free, and disinfect your pet’s bedding area, washing your hands, your dogs paws and keep floors and surfaces clean.
Dog Flu has caused death in 5 percent of cases usually due to the development of pneumonia. Veterinarians usually prescribe antibiotics and sometimes oxygen if needed.
Written By: Teri Salvador
TAGS: Dog flu, canine influenza, kennel cough, symptoms of dog flu, airborne flu.
One of the reasons I do not board my dog is because some kennel owners are not checking their clients dogs for their vaccines. I do not believe in vaccines each year and have told my vet that I think the first ones are effective for life and I agree with you all the way on this. Thanks for the information I will pass it on to my vet.
Rita