What's Going On?

January 3, 2012

Did you know... that dogs can get the flu ?!

The H3N8 virus ("Canine Flu") originated in horses but a mutation allowed the virus to spread and cause disease in dogs. In 2004 a group of greyhounds in Florida contracted the virus and since then, the virus has made its way across the country. Cases have been reported in 38 states, including Texas. Due to the lack of previous exposure to the virus, dogs do not have any natural immunity to the virus. It is highly contagious and has symptoms that include high fever, lethargy, coughing and runny nose. Dogs that contract the virus can shed it for several days prior to displaying symptoms. The mortality rate for the virus is between 5-10 %.

A vaccine for the virus was first introduced and approved in 2009. Much like in humans, the vaccine does not prevent infection but does significantly decrease the severity of the symptoms and allows dogs to recover more quickly. The vaccine should be given initially followed by a booster in 2 weeks and then annually.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for your dog(s) to receive the vaccine, contact our clinic.

To see a recent story that was reported on local Channel 2, click here.