It looks like the first case of canine influenza has been reported in Fresno County. Vets around the Valley are recommending you get your dog vaccinated. Take precautions and talk to your vet about what is appropriate for your dog. Some Vets and Pet Boading Businesses may require vaccinations for the canine flu prior to boarding. Your dog must be at least 7 weeks old to receive the vaccination. The vaccination comes in 2 rounds and protects your pet against H3N2 and H3N8 trains.
If your pet shows any of the symptoms below, contact your vet immediately!
Symptoms of canine influenza virus include:
Coughing
Sneezing
Variable fever
Clear nasal discharge that progresses to thick, yellowish-green mucus
Rapid/difficult breathing.Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Can Dogs Die From Canine Influenza Virus?
If CIV is quickly diagnosed and treated, the fatality rate is quite low. Deaths are usually caused by secondary complications, such as pneumonia. It is very important that dogs with CIV receive proper veterinary care.
How Is Canine Influenza Virus Diagnosed?
Veterinarians will typically conduct a thorough physical examination and run a series of tests to diagnose the illness.
How Is Canine Influenza Treated?
Most treatment for canine flu involves supportive treatments that are given while the body fights off the virus. Specific anti-viral medications are available, but they aren’t always used because they work the best early on, often before we realize that the dog is even sick. However, supportive care and appropriate treatment of secondary infections are important. Your veterinarian may advise the following to soothe your dog while the condition runs its course:
Good nutrition and supplements to raise immunityA warm, quiet and comfortable spot to restMedications to treat secondary bacterial infectionsIntravenous fluids to maintain hydrationWorkup and treatment for pneumonia
Be advised, while most dogs will fight the infection within 10 to 30 days, secondary infections require antibiotics and, in the case of pneumonia, hospitalization.