Canine Influenza has been getting quite a lot of exposure in the press of late, and our staff has been receiving numerous calls and questions regarding this topic.
Canine influenza is a highly-contagious viral respiratory infection. Two clinical syndromes have been seen—a mild form that is not life-threatening, and a more severe form accompanied by pneumonia.
Dogs suffering from the mild form develop a moist cough that persists for 10-30 days. These dogs are lethargic, have a poor appetite and mildly feverish, and may have nasal discharge. Dogs with the severe form develop a high fever (104-106 F), increased respiratory rate and effort (pneumonia with secondary bacterial infection) and may die. Cats may also become infected, developing nasal discharge, congestion, lethargy and excessive salivation.
Because very few dogs in the US are vaccinated, virtually all dogs exposed to the virus will become ill, most showing the mild form of the disease. As with any viral disease, treatment is largely supportive.
Dogs at highest risk are those travelling to regional “hot spots”, such as the Chicago area and the southeastern US. Forty states, including Kansas, have reported outbreaks. Dogs that interact with other dogs at the grooming salon, day-care, boarding facilities, dog parks are also at higher risk.
A vaccine is available for the 2 strains of influenza identified in the US. An initial series of 2 vaccinations is administered t 3 weeks apart, and is boosted annually thereafter. Currently there is no evidence of transmission from dogs to people, although the disease can be spread on surfaces contaminated with saliva and/or respiratory secretions from infected dogs, such as unwashed hands and clothing.
If you have questions about vaccinating your dog, or your dog is exhibiting signs of respiratory illness, contact your veterinarian immediately for an appointment!
Health Benefits of Pet Ownership
The company of a pet relaxes and entertains people, but the benefits of pet ownership go beyond simple joy. Studies have shown that keeping a pet improves the health and well-being of the people in the household. During stressful times, the comfort of a pet protects against depression and loneliness. Animal companions ward off depression and loneliness among people with AIDS and Alzheimer’s disease. Stressful situations have less of an impact on elderly pet owners and visit their physician less frequently.
Pets allow their owners to feel needed as nurturers, while also nurturing their owner. An animal’s unconditional affection often increases the owner’s ability to cope with personal setbacks and depression and can reduce loneliness. Individuals who live “alone” with a pet are actually part of a family; they can look forward to being greeted and recognized when they walk in the door. Caring for a pet can make its owner feel needed and provide reasons for living and staying healthy.
Pets motivate people to be more active and social. Pets are conversation-starters, help to make new acquaintances. Walking the dog provides not only physical exercise but also an opportunity to interact with humans living and more vulnerable to depression. Dog-walking and being outdoors where social contact is possible are healthful effects of dog ownership.
The comfort, social interaction, and motivation provided by pets improve cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure. Physical and verbal interaction can lower blood pressure. One study of hypertensive patients showed those who were given pets handled stressful tasks better than those who relied on blood pressure medication alone. Research shows people are more likely to survive the year after a heart attack if they have both a companion dog and a human social support network. Animal companionship is commonly linked to lower death rates and better long-term health.