Pet Health
Condition Overview
This respiratory virus was first isolated from racing Greyhounds in 2004. The virus appears to have mutated from the equine influenza virus. It has bee found in dogs of all breeds and mixes across North America.
Symptoms
Affected dogs will have a high fever, a soft - gagging cough (unlike the goose honking of kennel cough), and may have a nasal discharge.
All symptoms +
Causes
While 80% of dogs have a mild course of disease when exposed to this new pathogen, some will go on to develop pneumonia. Mortality is about 5 - 8 percent with most fatalities in puppies, old, dogs, and dogs with compromised immune systems. Some dogs will shed the virus either before becoming ill or chronically.
Diagnosis
To differentiate this problem from kennel cough will require lab tests.
Treatment
Treatment should start immediately. Isolate the dog, because this disease is contagious and is spread through the air. Supportive car is important, with antibiotics used if a secondary bacterial infection develops. Many dogs require fluids and hospitalization if they develop pneumonia. There is currently no vaccine.
Prevention
Information needed.
Support
Please contact your veterinarian if you think your pet may have this condition.
Sources
Dog Owners Home Veterinary Handbook
Publisher: Wiley Publishing, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Authors: Debra M. Eldredge, Liisa D. Carlson, Delbert G. Carlson, James M. Giffen MD
0 Comments For "Canine Influenza"