When you hear about influenza, you usually think of a mild disease that can put you in bed for a few days. Getting your ìFlu Shotî also immediately comes to mind. But you may not know that a form of a similar virus is attacking our dogs, but the disease can be much more serious.Experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have been watching different forms of canine influenza for several years now. The strains are changing, and currently a particular highly contagious strain is traveling across the country; this one is serious and potentially fatal. It is known as CIV, or canine influenza virus, and the two main strains are H3N8 and H3N2.The H3N8 strain was first seen in racing greyhounds in January 2004 at a track in Florida.The canine H3N2 strain emerged in Asia in 2006-2007 and likely arose through the direct transfer of an avian influenza virus to dogs. H3N8 canine influenza has been documented in 40 states and Washington, DC. It is considered endemic in areas of Colorado, Florida, New York and Pennsylvania.Canine influenza is spread by coughing, barking, sneezing and contaminated objects like kennel surfaces, food and water bowls and people moving between infected and uninfected dogs. The virus can remain alive on surfaces for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours and on hands for 12 hours. Therefore, outbreaks are more commonly seen in situations where groups of susceptible dogs are in close contact, such as shelters, kennels, dog day care facilities and grooming or†boarding facilities.Signs of the influenza in dogs usually start two to four days from exposure. Although most dogs have a milder form of canine influenza and show signs of cough, nasal discharge, and recover without complications; some may develop severe pneumonia. If secondary bacteria get a foothold in the upper respiratory tract, the disease can become much worse. They can run fevers of up to 104-105oF.Unlike the human flu, CIV is not a “seasonal” flu – infections can occur year-round. Because kennel type facilities are a real source of infection, and because it is a year-round thread, and because Colorado is among the list of states where the virus is very prevalent; great care should be taken. Inquire about the influenza history in any facility. Donít be shy about asking if employees should wash their hands with soap and water upon arriving, before and after handling each dog, after coming into contact with a dogís body fluids, after cleaning cages – and make sure they have a strict isolation protocol. Finally, make sure your dogs are vaccinated prior to any boarding.There are currently two CIV vaccines available. You should know, just as with other viruses, vaccination is not a guarantee your dog will not get the disease. Vaccinated dogs that become infected develop less severe illness and are less likely to spread the virus to other dogs. The vaccine trials have shown that vaccination may significantly reduce the severity and duration of the disease, including the incidence and severity of damage to the lungs. These benefits are similar to those provided by influenza vaccines used in other species, including humans.The canine influenza vaccine is a “lifestyle” vaccine, and is not recommended for every dog. In general, the vaccine is intended for the protection of dogs at risk for exposure to the canine influenza virus, which include those that either participate in activities with many other dogs or are housed in communal facilities, particularly where the virus is prevalent. Dogs that may benefit from canine influenza vaccination include those that receive the kennel cough (Bordetella/parainfluenza) vaccine, because the risk groups are similar.If you are concerned about this, you should consult with your veterinarian to determine whether your dog’s lifestyle includes risks for exposure to the canine influenza virus, and if vaccination is appropriate.Some of the cases reported in Colorado have been severe, so if you board your dog, no matter what time of the year, I would not hesitate recommending vaccination. Because signs begin just a few days from exposure and they are shedding virus during that time, it is very important that you know some of the details about canine influenza virus and take every measure you can to prevent it.Dr. Jim Humphries is a veterinarian in Falcon and also serves as a visiting professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M University. He provides hospice and end-of-life care for pets. He lives in Falcon with his wife, horses and rescued Great Danes. www.MobilePetDocs.com
