Canine influenza is a highly contagious infection caused by an Influenza A virus. When a dog is infected by influenza H3N8 (canine influenza virus) there are two forms of the disease. The mild form of the disease usually shows up as a soft, moist cough that persists for 10 to 30 days. Dogs with the mild form of influenza may have a secondary bacterial nasal discharge. Some dogs that have been boarded or have visited a grooming facility may have a dry cough similar to the “kennel cough” caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica/parainfluenza complex resulting in a mistaken diagnosis of influenza. As with kennel cough infections the disease is usually mild and resolves without serious complications. The severe form of canine Influenza infection results in high fever in the dog. Onset of the disease can be rapid and can lead to pneumonia. It can even result in death to the patient. There have been some recent isolates of the Asian canine Influenza virus, a different form of influenza. If you think your pet has symptoms of this disease, please contact your veterinarian quickly. Most important- have your dog vaccinated before the disease shows up in your area.
Apr 18 2015
