Hello, everyone! I’m Dr. Jen the vet, and I’m here with Cosette, my farm fresh Frenchie. Today, we’re excited to discuss an important topic that’s close to our hearts: respiratory diseases in dogs. We’re partnering with Best Friends Fur Ever, a premier doggy daycare and boarding facility in the Baltimore metro area, to bring you this information. If you’re looking for a trustworthy place that is a leader in pet care standards for your dog, their locations in Joppa and Cockeysville are great options. Let’s dive into today’s topic: canine influenza!
Canine influenza, or “dog flu,” is a key concern for dog owners, especially with the recent outbreaks.
It’s important to know that canine influenza is endemic in the United States, meaning it’s always present within the dog population. This isn’t something to panic about, but it is something to be mindful of. The virus circulates constantly in the U.S. dog population, so there’s always a chance your dog might be exposed.
Currently, the canine influenza strain causing illness in U.S. dogs is H3N2. In fact, the other canine influenza strain, H3N8 hasn’t been seen in the US since 2017! But, viruses can be unpredictable, so vigilance is key.
One of the tricky aspects of managing canine influenza is that dogs can shed the virus for up to 48 hours before showing any symptoms. This means they can spread the infection without appearing sick, which can complicate efforts to prevent outbreaks, especially in places like shelters.
Given the nature of this virus, vaccination is a critical preventive measure. There is a specific vaccine for canine influenza, and it’s highly recommended for all dogs, especially those in social settings like daycare, boarding, or grooming facilities. Best Friends Fur Ever has made this vaccine a requirement for all dogs using our services. This policy helps to maintain a safe environment and prevent the spread of respiratory diseases.
In addition to the flu vaccine, I also recommend an upper respiratory vaccine administered mucosally, either intranasally or orally. This vaccine protects against other respiratory pathogens like Bordetella sp., parainfluenza, and adenovirus. At our facilities, we advocate for using the intranasal vaccine, Intra-Trac 3, which offers comprehensive protection.
Some people worry about the safety of vaccines, especially for older dogs. However, the flu vaccine for dogs is very safe and cannot cause the flu. It’s crucial for all dogs, including seniors, to be vaccinated. Older dogs may have a harder time recovering from illnesses, so keeping their vaccinations up to date is essential for their health.
There’s also some confusion around terms like “kennel cough.” Many different pathogens can cause respiratory symptoms in dogs, and they’re collectively referred to as Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC). Proper vaccination and good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of these infections.
As we wrap up, I want to thank you all for tuning in. Remember, the best way to protect your furry friends from respiratory diseases is through regular vaccinations and by choosing reputable care facilities that prioritize pet health. If you have any more questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out to Best Friends Fur Ever via their Facebook or Instagram pages. Stay safe, keep your pets healthy, and until next time, take care!