For Dog Only

Canine influenza is a relatively recent addition to the list of things we have to worry about when it comes to our dogs. Although the epidemic widespread as suggested by the media does not exist is certainly a disease that spreads and that we should be aware of if we live or work with dogs.

It was discovered in Florida during research on the causes of kennel cough among greyhounds, and we think be a variation of the horse flu. It is an airborne disease and is most likely to be where many dogs are housed close to each other. About 16% of dogs exposed to the disease symptoms, and these cases, about 6% fatal.

Symptoms canine flu are high fever, coughing and sneezing, runny nose, lethargy or depression and excessive loss of appetite. Well course, many other diseases are characterized by coughing and sneezing so you should not immediately assume your dog has the flu, but If you are concerned, you should consult your veterinarian, especially the temperature of your dog reaches 106 degrees.

Canine influenza is a virus and therefore does not respond to antibiotics. In severe cases, damage the respiratory system leads to a secondary infection of pneumonia, and this that usually causes death. Pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics and a high fluid intake, so that the number of fatal cases Influenza can be reduced. Research into a vaccine against canine influenza is currently ongoing, but it may not be available for another couple of years.

If you are planning to leave your dog in a kennel, you should check their policy on respiratory tract infections. Ask if they isolate any dog develops an infection, either the flu or something less harmful, such as kennel cough. Also make sure that you know if your dog is entered in contact with another dog with a respiratory infection.

A recent case in Pittsburgh saw the high quality boarding facility, Misty Pines, temporarily closed because thirty of their dogs developed canine influenza. None of the dogs died and the facility was reopened after infection had outlived its usefulness. Canine influenza is infectious for ten days and has an incubation period of two to five days so it is perfectly safe Dog boarding, again, now that the infection has disappeared.

Although infection is more common in places where Dogs are grouped together, do not let this put off buying a dog in a shelter. You will however see the housing policy on newcomers. Did they isolate them for days to ensure they have the infection? If you already have a dog at home, you may want to keep your pet separate news from them for a few days just to be on the safe side.

Canine influenza poses no risk to humans because they can become infected. However, it is estimated that humans can carry the virus on their hands, clothing and footwear you must be aware of that. In some cases, it is estimated that employees of dog shelters or kennels have transmitted the virus to their own dogs of this way.

Although canine influenza is clearly a question you should be aware and take precautions against, you should not leave your dog to stop living life as usual. And you should not stop using your facilities for pets usual. If you want information on outbreaks of the virus in your area, contact your local veterinarian or the Veterinary Association of the State, which will able to provide local information and peace of mind.

About the Author:

Oftentimes our dogs don't have anything as serious as canine influenza. Learn more about symptoms like coughing, snoring and voice changing here. More dog articles are here.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Is Your Dog At Risk Of Canine Influenza?

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