The staff and doctors here at Cherry Ridge Veterinary Clinic would like to inform you about an emerging disease in our area called canine influenza virus. There have now been confirmed cases of canine influenza caused by canine influenza virus (CIV) in northeastern PA, including Wayne County and the Honesdale area. CIV is also known as the H3N8 influenza virus, which is a cause of respiratory disease in dogs and is capable of being transmitted from dog-to-dog. Most dogs have never been exposed to this contagious virus. Symptoms may be indistinguishable from other infections, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, which contribute to the symptoms of “kennel cough.” The most common symptoms of canine influenza virus are lethargy, decreased appetite, low-grade fever, nasal discharge, and coughing that can last for several weeks. While the majority of dogs will have mild symptoms, CIV can also cause a high fever, increased respiratory rate, pneumonia, and even death. We here at the Cherry Ridge Veterinary Clinic are reaching out to encourage protection against this virus by vaccination. Canine influenza virus is spread through sneezing, coughing, direct animal to animal contact, and by contaminated surfaces. CIV has caused outbreaks at boarding facilities, shelters, grooming facilities, dog parks, and dog beaches throughout the United States. We are recommending vaccination against CIV for all dogs that are boarded, groomed, and come in direct contact with other dogs. The canine influenza virus (CIV) vaccine aids in the control of disease and has been shown to reduce the incidence and duration of coughing and viral shedding in infected dogs. This vaccine can be given safely to dogs as young as 8 weeks of age. Previously unvaccinated dogs will need an initial vaccine and then a booster 3 weeks later. Annual revaccination is needed to help continue protection. Please contact our hospital at 570-253-2402 with any additional questions and to schedule CIV vaccination for your dog.
Posted on: Fri, 05 Sep 2014 13:29:00 +0000
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