BE SAFE AROUND DOGS

News travels fast on the dog show circuit, especially news about canine influenza.

The following message from the American Kennel Club was recently sent to members:

“We have received notice of confirmed cases of canine influenza in dogs that were at events in Georgia and Florida over the past 7-14 days. Please monitor your dogs closely. As you know, the virus has an incubation period of 2-5 days and dogs may be shedding the virus while showing no signs. Dogs with fevers, poor appetites, coughing, sneezing, runny eyes/noses should NOT be exposed to other dogs or people. If your dog is ill or exhibiting symptoms, the best option is to seek veterinary attention and refrain from bringing the dog out in public until they are medically cleared by your veterinarian.”

Canine influenza was first reported in 2004 when the H3N8 equine virus adapted to dogs. Originally observed in greyhounds from Florida, the virus rapidly spread to 40 states, including Pennsylvania.

The H3N2 strain of canine influenza emerged in Asia in 2006 and is thought to be a direct transfer of the avian influenza virus. Originally confined to Korea, China and Thailand, this new strain of canine influenza was seen in Chicago in 2015. Since then, thousands of dogs have been confirmed to have this strain of influenza.

The virus is spread in respiratory secretions and transmitted by coughing, sneezing and barking. It can survive on surfaces for days. Most dogs do not have immunity, and the virus can spread easily at shows, kennels, parks, animal shelters and veterinary facilities. Almost all dogs exposed become infected. Not all dogs will show symptoms of coughing, sneezing and nasal discharge, but they can still spread the disease.

The symptoms can appear similar to those of other canine respiratory diseases like Bordatella (kennel cough) and parainfluenza. Some dogs develop high fevers and pneumonia, and some have died. Cats can also become infected.

Once infected, dogs should be isolated for 21 days. They are treated with medication to control fever and fluids to prevent dehydration. Antibiotics are used if pneumonia is present.

Vaccines are available for the dogs that are the most at risk. Owners of show dogs and pets with high contact with other dogs should discuss this infection with their veterinarians.

Local veterinary emergency services have not reported a