This week on Barking Wednesday I want to share a guest post written by the American Veterinary Medical Association ~ AVMA
The Dog Flu is spreading rapidly across the USA. Many dogs are ill in my state Wisconsin.
See what we can do to make a positive difference curbing the contagion.
How to Curb the Contagion
The Canine Influenza has been spreading throughout the continental United States, including Wisconsin, so the American Veterinary Medical Association(AVMA) has some information and tips to help dog owners better understand the virus. “What we need to keep in mind is that humans can physically transmit the virus - which can stay on our clothes for up to 24 hours- so it is important to be careful about interacting with any unknown dogs,” says AVMA spokesperson Dr. Aspros “With proper education, we can do
our best to minimize the spread.”
What is canine influenza?
Canine influenza (CI), or dog flu, is a highly contagious infection caused by an influenza A subtype H3N8 virus first discovered in 2004.
What are common symptoms of the infection in dogs?
In the mild form, the most common sign is a cough that persists for 2-3 weeks. However, some dogs can develop signs of severe pneumonia, such as a high-grade fever (104°F-106°F) and faster breathing. Other signs in infected dogs include nasal and/or ocular discharge, sneezing, fatigue, and refusing food.
Is every dog at risk of infection?
All dogs, regardless of breed or age, are susceptible to infection.
How does it spread?
Canine influenza is spread from dog to dog through the air, contaminated objects (kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes), and people interacting with infected and uninfected dogs. On surfaces, the virus is alive and can infect dogs for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on hands for 12 hours.
Can veterinarians test for canine influenza?
The most reliable and sensitive method for confirmation is serologic testing. Antibodies to canine influenza virus can appear in blood as early as 7 days after symptoms begin, and the virus may be identified in nasal or pharyngeal swabs during the first 4 days of illness.
Any treatment options?
In May 2009, the USDA approved the first influenza vaccine for dogs. Trials have shown that it can significantly reduce the duration of illness, including the incidence and severity of damage to the lungs. Dog owners should consult with their vet to determine whether the vaccine is appropriate for their dog.
Can canine influenza infect people?
There is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted from dogs to humans.
For more information about canine influenza virus, visit https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/Pages/Canine-Influenza-Backgrounder.aspx
Thank you AVMA for this excellent article.
I hadn't heard of this before. We have chickens and the Avian flu has been spreading. No poultry at the county fair this year :(
ReplyDeleteOh dear, I had never head of the canine flu. I will be on the lookout.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I've heard of this before. We no longer have a dog but it's good to be informed.
ReplyDeleteWe don't have a dog but I have been reading up a bit on these as it has been on the news. Seems scary especially since humans can pass it to dogs.
ReplyDeleteI'd heard about this, but didn't know any of the details. Thank you for sharing. I think we'll continue to steer clear of our local dog park and opt for more time in the backyard to avoid possible contamination!
ReplyDeleteI have heard of this somewhere before but our dogs do not normally go around other ones much we have plenty of countryside they can play in.
ReplyDeleteReally scary. I just tweeted your tweet about this! We have a dog and we love her so much.
ReplyDeleteThankfully, canine flu hasn't been a problem in our area. Where we live, there's enough space that dogs are rarely nose to nose.
ReplyDeleteI had never heard of canine flu. At least in our area it hasn't been a problem. My mom's dog has recently been checked out at the vet and is relatively healthy at 13 years old!
ReplyDeleteI was watching Monsters Inside me and a boy caught a virus from a dog who had the flu. We have to be really careful with our pets and kids.
ReplyDeleteI hadn't heard of this, but I had a neighbor who had dogs who were sick and this sounds like what they may have had. She moved recently, but I made sure to keep our puppies in and away from the fence where they may come into contact with hers. That was over 6 months ago so I hope they are clear from possible contagion. They have been to the vet since then and are well.
ReplyDeleteOh no! I've never heard of this before. My pups are my world I'd be terrified if they got sick. Glad I read this! - Jeanine
ReplyDeleteI never thought about dogs getting the flu. I will share this with family and friends that have 4 legged kids.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know they could get that sick from the flu. Good to be aware of this!
ReplyDeleteI had no idea that dogs got the flu! Wow! Can humans get it from dogs?
ReplyDeleteI know pets can't get our flu. I didn't know they had their own!
ReplyDeleteI had never heard of this. Thanks for sharing such valuable information for us dog owners. I will be watching my dog like a hawk now!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know that dogs could get the flu... ugh poor little fur babies!
ReplyDeleteI hate seeing my own kids sick but it would break my heart if it was my pet.
This is new information for me too. I will make sure I share this with my family and friends.
DeleteI had never heard of this until a few weeks ago! We all need to keep our family and furry family safe!
ReplyDeleteOMG that is scary we are headed to the midwest with our pup this summer... ver;y concerned now
ReplyDeleteI had no idea this was becoming an issue. I'll have to remember your advice because I'd like to avoid that flu!
ReplyDeleteThat's horrible! I've never heard of this and think it's great that you're raising awareness.
ReplyDeleteCanine flu isn't in our area yet luckily. I am reading up on it to make sure our dogs don't get sick!
ReplyDeleteI had no idea dogs can actually get the flu. I will be sure to share this information with my family and friends and keep a close eye on our own furry sweetheart.
ReplyDeleteYou know, I just saw a news report on this. I had no clue, but agree that it is very important to share this with everyone...
ReplyDeleteI have heard reports of this. Did not know all the info. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI've been hearing about this on the news. I hope my dog never gets it!!
ReplyDeleteI hope that my dogs don't get the canine flu. I would feel horrible for them.
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of Canine Flu and also that its spreading! I need to keep a close eye on my Dogs to see if they are showing signs
ReplyDeleteOne has to be careful of the vaccine, as there are many negative side effects.
ReplyDeleteI knew dogs could get the vaccine and the flu. Glad my pups are protected.
ReplyDeleteIt's important to keep your pets healthy! If they get sick, it just leads to more expenses down the road!
ReplyDeleteWE don't have a dog but I will be sure to let my kids know so they can protect theirs. They probably already know about it though.
ReplyDeleteOh my! I have never heard of this before, so it's good to know what to look for. I need to talk to my vet about the vaccine.
ReplyDeleteThat's so scary! Thankfully, my pets have been pretty healthy, but I want to keep it that way. Thanks for bringing this to my attention.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know dogs could get the flu. Thanks for the heads up!
ReplyDeleteWe don't; have dogs so I had NO IDEA there was a dog flu! :(
ReplyDeleteWow a dog flu during summer! Thanks for the heads up
ReplyDeleteI will have to share this with my Sister. She has two little dogs and i am not sure if she has heard of Canine Influenza. Thanks for the great information.
ReplyDeleteI have heard it is making the rounds. I was very worried when we had to send our dogs to the kennel a few weeks ago, but so far it seems like they are A OK.
ReplyDeleteI have read a bit about it making its round. So far there isnt an outbreak in my area. My vet is right down the street and she calls when things like that need to be made known.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know that it was something dogs could get. I am glad to know though,these things are good to know when you're considering a pup.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know the USDA approved a vaccine for them! Good to know!
ReplyDeleteGood info for the dog owners. I had no idea!
ReplyDeleteoh my! no idea about this dog flu either. thanks for sharing
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