New Vaccine for Canine Flu
Some of you may have never heard of canine influenza. It is a relatively new disease having been identified just a few years ago in 2005. You may recall some mysterious deaths of Greyhounds at a Florida race track back in 2004. It was a real mystery for a while with over thirty dogs dying of a strange new respiratory disease.
It turns out that this virus mutated from the Equine influenza virus that has been a problem in horses for decades. The mutation allowed this virus to be able to cause disease in dogs.
It is mainly a problem in closely confined dogs like those at the race track. It is spread via contact with infected nasal secretions. Dogs can spread it among themselves merely by close contact and it can also be spread by people moving between infected dogs and by contaminated objects. The virus is not capable of causing disease in people though.
You can imagine how it can spread through kennels, pet stores and even veterinary clinics. Since dogs have no natural immunity to a new disease it can spread rapidly anywhere dogs congregate.
The good news is that it is fairly benign in its current state. Only about 20% of infected dogs show
serious disease. Many dogs are only mildly affected. Interestingly enough brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs and Pekingese are more at risk due to their unique anatomy. Having a short upper respiratory tract complicates any respiratory disease and canine flu can lead to dangerous pneumonia in these dogs.
Like any virus, canine flu can continue to mutate and become a more serious threat to the dog population in general. When you consider that dogs have no naturally acquired immunity it could become a nasty situation.
Fortunately there is a new vaccine that was just approved last week. You may be wondering if your dog should have this new vaccine. I'd suggest that you discuss this with your veterinarian. The decision should be based on risk. Canine Flu has been reported in over 30 states. If you live in one of those states and your dog comes into contact with other dogs via competition, boarding or some other way it might be a good idea. Most dogs are not in this category but you should call your vet and ask for their opinion.
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Betty
http://smallpet.info
Posted by: Betty | July 24, 2009 at 07:55 AM