It is recommended for dogs that have lifestyles engaging in communal dog activities, such as dog daycare, to receive the canine influenza vaccine. The vaccine will not only aid in preventing a dog from contracting canine influenza, but would reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Our veterinarians affirm that because of the similar risk groups, dogs that receive the Bordetella vaccine should also receive the canine influenza vaccine.
We feel it is important to know more about canine influenza and the reasons veterinarians recommend the vaccine. According to a publication by the American Veterinary Medical Foundation: All dogs that are exposed to Canine Influenza Virus become infected, but only 80% develop clinical signs of disease. The other estimated 20% of infected dogs that don’t show signs of disease, can still shed the virus and spread the infection.
Symptoms to look for are:
- Persisting cough for 10 to 21 days that despite treatment, it may be a soft moist cough or a dry cough similar to “kennel cough”.
- Nasal or eye discharge
- Sneezing
- Lack of energy
- Anorexia
- Fever (104-105°F)
If your dog is diagnosed with canine influenza, the following steps of treatment are recommended and of course, be sure to consult your personal veterinarian:
- Good nutrition and supplements to raise immunity.
- A warm, quiet and comfortable spot to rest.
- Medications to treat secondary bacterial infections.
- Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration.
- Workup and treatment for pneumonia.
Thank you all for sharing your amazing dogs with us and we hope this information will serve as another way to keep your dog happy and healthy.