| This is not a Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) to be taken | | | | pneumonia. |
| lightly! Even dogs inoculated for Bordetella, are | | | | · It is spread through air (coughing or |
| candidates for infection! Puppies, dogs with | | | | sneezing), direct contact, (licking, kissing, nuzzling, |
| compromised immune systems and senior dogs are | | | | shared bowls) and contaminated surfaces (hands, |
| at greater risk. | | | | clothing, furniture, bedding, dog bedding, crates, |
| · Since Labor Day Weekend 2009, this highly | | | | kennels, toys, bowls, dog collars, dog leashes and |
| contagious respiratory viral infection of dogs has | | | | other surfaces) |
| roared like a wild fire, up the East Coast from Miami | | | | · It can be treated with antibiotics, to avoid |
| to New England. | | | | or lessen risks of secondary infection. |
| · It is caused by the subtype H3N8 of the | | | | · If inoculated before infected, severity may |
| influenza A virus. | | | | be reduced with the H3N8 vaccine - given in 2 doses, |
| · It is the source of acute respiratory | | | | 2-4 weeks apart, followed by an annual |
| infection in dogs. It can cause respiratory disease | | | | re-vaccination. |
| alone, or in combination with other canine respiratory | | | | · Dogs currently vaccinated for Bordetella |
| pathogens. | | | | (kennel cough) are likely candidates for the CIV |
| · It is not seasonal...dogs can contract it year | | | | H3N8. |
| round. | | | | · Unless inoculated, avoid large gatherings of |
| · All dogs regardless of age or breed are at | | | | dogs. |
| risk. | | | | · Washing hands, clothing, and other items in |
| · Affects dogs only. | | | | soap and water can easily inactivate the virus. (virus |
| · 100% of dogs are susceptible...80% will | | | | can survive for up to 48 hours otherwise) |
| show signs, 20% will not become ill, but can still be a | | | | · Concrete and metal surfaces should be |
| carrier. | | | | cleaned with a 1-part bleach to 9-parts water. |
| · Dogs not exhibiting symptoms can spread | | | | · For the first 7-10 days, infected dogs shed |
| the disease. | | | | the virus through respiratory secretions. Avoid |
| · Symptoms are: persistent coughing, | | | | contact with other dogs during this period if possible! |
| sneezing, nasal discharge, and transient low-grade | | | | · The virus usually runs its course usually in 2 |
| fever, lack of appetite, lack of energy. The cough | | | | weeks. After that, the dog is no longer contagious. |
| can last up to 1 month. | | | | Bottom line: If your dog is exhibiting any of the |
| · Coughing is the dog's way of ridding the | | | | symptoms, get to the vet immediately. There is a |
| virus from their body. Do not give cough suppressant! | | | | greater risk of death if there are secondary |
| · Take precautions to prevent secondary | | | | infections such as pneumonia. |
| infections such as a yellow-green nasal discharge and | | | | |