Canine influenza has sickened 1,300 dogs in the Midwest, including western Ohio. Dr. Dane Arends, with Wadsworth Veterinarian Hospital, says his practice hasn’t seen any cases yet, but his office is prepared should dogs and cats in our area come down with the flu.
Signs of mild canine influenza include loss of appetite, sneezing, or a runny nose. More serious signs of canine flu include high fevers and loss of appetite. Dr. Arends advises taking your pet to the vet if you suspect your four-legged friend is ill. But he also said to let your vet know you suspect the flu so they can be prepared.
Canine flu is not a threat to humans, but is passed from dog to dog and even dog to cat.
Dr. Arends said doggie daycares, dog parks and kennels are places where canine flu could be passed most easily. A simple measure to take for humans who come in contact with a flu-bugged animal include hand washing.
Canine influenza has a low fatality rate. Dr. Arends suggests getting your dog the flu vaccine, but noted the current vaccine does not protect against this new canine flu strain.
On the Web:
Merck Animal Health www.doginfluenza.com
American Veterinary Medical Association http://bit.ly/1DDNWsQ
