Canine Influenza Update January 26, 2010
Recently many of my clients have been asking about the canine influenza virus and the vaccine that is now available. Most of these inquiries were prompted by a radio advertisement for the vaccine. Some confusion has arisen because the format of the advertisement sounds somewhat like a public service announcement, but he radio ad is sponsored by the company that makes the vaccine.
In the five years I have been practicing in Colorado, I have seen one confirmed case of canine influenza. The signs of this disease are quite similar to those of kennel cough- mostly coughing, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Some dogs can exhibit signs with either influenza or kennel cough such as difficulty breathing, vomiting, dehydration or fever. I highly recommend any dog that is coughing be evaluated by a veterinarian. Most dogs with canine influenza have a relatively mild disease and complications such as pneumonia are not common but possible.
Right now I am not recommending that dogs be routinely vaccinated for canine influenza. I would possibly recommend the vaccine for dogs that may be at higher risk for this disease, such as dogs taking steroid medication, immune-compromised dogs, show dogs, or dogs in day care or kennel situations frequently. Another consideration is whether dogs will be traveling to areas where the disease is more prevalent. The following is a link to more information about canine influenza. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/hsn/20100126/hl_hsn/dogfluriskhighestwherecaninesmingle
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