CANINE INFLUENZA UPDATE Canine influenza is a viral respiratory disease similar to the human flu virus. It is a relatively new virus that seems to have mutated, or transformed from the Equine Influenza Virus that is found in horses. Because it is new, dogs do not have any pre-existing immunity to this virus. The virus is contagious from dog to dog via the respiratory system; your dog does not have to have direct contact with an infected dog to be infected. 80% of dogs exposed to the virus become sick. Symptoms are similar to our flu, including cough, lethargy, not eating, fever, sneezing, and nasal/eye discharge. It can worsen to viral pneumonia, which can be life threatening. 20% of dogs that become ill develop the more severe form of pneumonia. Montgomery county has had multiple cases of influenza over the past 1-2 weeks. CIV is spread by cough, sneeze or direct contact with an infected dog. There is a vaccine available for high risk dogs, such as dogs who board, go to doggy daycare, get groomed, or go to dog parks. The vaccine helps to create antibodies for these dogs so they are better able to fight the disease more efficiently. It does not 100% prevent disease, but it can help to lessen clinical signs and decrease risks of the more serious form of disease. It has been shown to be a safe vaccine, with a 1.3% chance of side effects- typical of other vaccines. Zoetis, the company we use that manufactures the vaccine, offers an immunization support guarantee, which states they will cover reasonable diagnostic and therapeutic costs up to 5000.00$ if your pet is vaccinated yet still contracts the disease. Dogs require two vaccines initially that should be given3 weeks apart for full immunity. Annual vaccination is needed to keep full immunity and be eligible for the Zoetis vaccine guarantee. Muddy Creek recommends this vaccine if your dog travels to the above mentioned at risk areas. A good way to decide if your pet needs the vaccine is if you keep up to date on the six month Bordetella vaccine it would be a good idea to vaccinate your dog with the CIV vaccine. Call us at muddy creek if you have any questions, or to schedule your vaccine.
Posted on: Wed, 04 Sep 2013 23:16:55 +0000
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