Canine Influenza In Spring, TX

What You Need To Know About Canine Influenza

There are many causes of Kennel Cough, both bacterial and viral. As of right now, there are 2 cases of Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) in Spring, TX. Know the facts and bring your pet to get treatment right away if you see symptoms of CIV.

Here is the story from Blue Pearl Specialty and Emergency Hospital in Spring:

"There has been a report of an influenza outbreak in the Southeastern U.S. in the last couple of weeks at large dog shows in Florida and Georgia. It is believed to be the H3N2 variety previously thought to originate in Asia. Some of these dogs traveled from all over the country, so it is feasible that you could see cases.
We currently are treating 2 confirmed cases of influenza in our Spring hospital, and both of these cases were exposed to the Perry, Ga outbreak...."

What is CIV?

CIV is one of the viral causes of kennel cough.  It is a highly contagious respiratory disease that has affected thousands of dogs in the US. Because it is a relatively new virus, the majority of dogs have not been exposed to it before. 

How is CIV spread? 

Dogs of any age, breed and vaccine status are susceptible to this infection. CIV is easily transmitted between dogs through a combination of aerosols, droplets and direct contact with respiratory secretions. The virus does not survive for a long time in the environment, so dogs usually get CIV when they are in close proximity to other infectious dogs.

What are the symptoms of CIV?

Most dogs will have minor symptoms, but some could develop a more severe illness. For this reason it is very important to take them to your veterinarian right away.  Be on the look out for the following symptoms:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever 
• Clear nasal discharge that progresses to thick, yellowish-green mucus
• Rapid/difficult breathing
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy

How do you treat CIV?

If diagnosed and quickly treated, the fatality rate is very low. It is incredibly important that dogs with CIV receive proper veterinary care right away. Treatment includes supportive care and appropriate treatment of secondary infections. While your dog works through the virus, we recommend a few of the following tips:

• Good nutrition and supplements to raise immunity
• A warm, quiet and comfortable spot to rest
• Medications to treat secondary bacterial infections
• Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration

It can take 10-30 days for most dogs to fight the infection. During that time, secondary infections may develop that require antibiotics and sometimes hospitalization. While the CIV vaccines helps reduce clinical signs of infection, it cannot prevent your dog from getting CIV. If you are concerned that your dog has CIV, contact our clinic at 281-970-0601 or make an appointment conveniently online.