Recently, there has been reports of Canine Influenza in Texas. This is spread from dog to dog, or by contaminated food bowls and surfaces. All Pets Veterinary Medical Center will discuss the recent developments to help you better understand what Canine Influenza is and how to protect your dog.
Multiple Cases of Canine Influenza Virus Have Been Confirmed in Texas — Get Your Dog Vaccinated at All Pets Today
Canine Influenza is a highly-contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) has confirmed multiple cases of Canine Influenza Virus (CIV). As many as two cases have been confirmed in Harris County, and one case each has been confirmed in Fort Bend, Travis and Hood counties. It is important to be aware of this virus, even if you are not in these counties.
The first two cases of CIV, confirmed in early June in Harris County, have been verified as H3N2. This is the same strain of CIV confirmed in Florida and Georgia earlier this year.
Symptoms of Canine Influenza Virus — All Pets Provides Vaccines to Keep Your Dog Protected
Virtually all dogs exposed with CIV become infected, but not all will exhibit symptoms. According to TVMDL, only 80 percent develop clinical signs. The 20 percent that are infected but don’t exhibit symptoms can still shed the virus and spread the infection. However, there is no evidence to date that this virus can be transmitted to humans. Symptoms of Canine Influenza Virus include:
- high fever
- loss of appetite
- coughing
- nasal discharge
- lethargy
Tips for Protecting Your Dog from Canine Influenza Virus and Getting Vaccinated with All Pets
Keep your pet as isolated as possible – no doggy daycare, trips to the dog park, stays at the kennel, etc. It is extremely important to realize that dogs may have the virus in their bodies and be contagious even if they don’t show signs of illness. Although people can’t get sick from the virus, we can still transport the virus from one dog to another. If you have had contact with dogs outside of your home you should wash your hands thoroughly before touching your own dog.
It is also important to make sure your dogs are up to date on their canine influenza vaccines. Your pet may not have gotten this vaccine in the past because it is considered “non-core,” meaning that is generally only given to dogs who are at higher than average risk for the disease. A previously unvaccinated dog should receive two inoculations 2-4 weeks apart. It is recommended to give your dog annual boosters unless he or she’s risk factors decrease. While the canine influenza vaccine doesn’t necessarily prevent dogs from becoming infected with the virus, it does significantly reduce the severity of disease that can develop as a result.
All Pets Veterinary Medical Center
Provides Canine Influenza Vaccines
The H3N8 dog flu vaccine has been around for awhile, but there’s also a new vaccine for H3N2 dog flu as well. Our veterinarians here at All Pets Veterinary Medical Center can administer the H3N2 vaccine to our patients. With the spreading of outbreaks recently in Texas, we strongly encourage you to get your dog vaccinated today to ensure he or she is stays strong and healthy. Contact us here at All Pets Veterinary Medical Center with the link below to get your dog’s canine influenza vaccine today!
