Client Education
Canine Influenza
In the past few years, the canine influenza virus has become an increasing cause of concern among dogs. Cases of pets with canine flu have been reported from several animal shelters, boarding kennels, and veterinary clinics in Georgia. There is now a vaccine to decrease the chances of your dog becoming sick if they contract the flu virus from another dog.
The virus causes symptoms similar to the flu in people: nagging cough, nasal discharge (runny nose), and tiredness. Not all dogs show the same symptoms, and some dogs might be more “sick” than others when they have the flu.
The virus is spread through the air, from close contact (especially nose to nose or by saliva), and on clothes or objects that have touched a sick pet. DOGS WITH FLU ARE MOST CONTAGIOUS TO OTHER DOGS BEFORE THEY START ACTING SICK!! This means you may not know your dog is at risk of being infected or of infecting other dogs.
Most dogs will recover from the flu with proper care from their vet, but some dogs develop pneumonia and become extremely ill, requiring hospitalization and extended care. Greyhounds and their relatives (Whippets and Italian Greyhounds) are at higher risk for this more serious form of the flu.
How do you know if your dog is at risk? We recommend vaccinating your dog for canine influenza if your dog
is or does one or more of the following:
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Is a Greyhound, Whippet, or Italian Greyhound
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Is groomed or bathed outside of your home more than once a year
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Boards more than once a year
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Attends obedience classes or doggie daycare
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Goes to dog parks more than twice a year
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Lives with a person who works with animals
The flu vaccine has been found to be very safe and does not make dogs develop the flu when given.
We would love to speak to you more about your pet’s risk for the flu or set up an appointment to have them vaccinated. Please call us with any questions!
Sincerely,
Drs.. Bruno, Reinold, Stallings, and Tanis
and the Staff of Animal Medical Center of Lawrenceville
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