Canine Influenza

Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a myxovirus, Influenza Type A virus. Genetic analysis shows that the canine influenza virus is closely related to equine influenza virus, suggesting that it evolved from equine influenza virus and jumped species.  The disease was first identified in racing greyhounds in Florida in 2004. However, it has been reported in virtually all states within the United States. Cases have been identified in animal shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinics, humane societies and in privately owned pets.  Virtually all dogs are susceptible, because immunity has not developed in the canine population at large.

CLINICAL SIGNS: Clinical signs appear two to five days after exposure. Infected dogs may shed virus for 7 to 10 days from the initial day of clinical signs. Nearly 20 percent of infected dogs will not display clinical signs and become silent shedders and spreaders of the infection. Two clinical syndromes have been seen in dogs infected with the canine influenza virus--a mild form of the disease and a more severe form that is accompanied by pneumonia.

MILD FORM: Dogs generally present with a soft, moist cough that persists for 10 to 30 days. Some dogs have a dry cough similar to the "kennel cough" caused by Bordetella. Dogs with the mild form of influenza may have a secondary bacterial nasal discharge. As with other kennel cough infections the clinical signs are generally mild, the disease resolves without treatment, and treatment does not noticeably alter the course or duration of the disease. The value of antiviral therapy is not scientifically established.

SEVERE FORM: Dogs with the severe form of canine influenza develop high fevers (104°F to 106°F) and have clinical signs of hemorrhagic pneumonia. These clinical signs have a rapid onset, and can lead to death within 4-6 hrs of presentation. Secondary bacterial pneumonia may be present as a co-infection. Mortality of 5-8% has been reported with the severe form of disease in selected high-risk populations, but the rate is generally <1%

TREATMENT/MANAGEMENT/PREVENTION:
1) The mild form is often self-limiting, and may require only isolation of the dog and supportive care (cough suppressants, rest, maintenance of normal hydration, etc).

2) With the severe form, treatment is largely supportive. Fluid support and broad-spectrum antibiotics that cover both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria are generally required.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES:
There are no vaccines against canine influenza. However, effective vaccination of other respiratory pathogens may allow clinicians to rule out diseases such as "kennel cough". Thus, dogs that are scheduled for boarding should be vaccinated against "kennel cough" 2 weeks prior to boarding. Dogs admitted to shelters should be vaccinated on admission.  Any dog with clinical signs should be quarantined, avoiding the waiting area/common areas as much as possible. Canine influenza is easily killed by most disinfectants, and does not survive well outside the host.  Household bleach can be used for disinfecting contaminated utensils and the premises.

All Pets Medical & Laser Surgical Center cannot be held responsible for exposure to Canine Influenza Virus (Dog Flu) as there is no vaccine available at this time.  Our goal is to provide the highest quality veterinary care to our patients and excellent service to our clients.  To achieve this goal, our dog boarding facility is available ONLY to our current canine patients.  In doing this, we our protecting our patients by providing an exclusive dog boarding facility for the pets of our valued clients and helping to ensure their health and well being.

**THIS INFORMATION WAS TAKEN FROM VIN: Mark Rishniw, BVSc, DACVIM (Small Animal Internal Medicine & Cardiology), Texas Medical Informatics, Inc and Veterinary Information Network, Inc.