Dog owners are now stricken with fear regarding the latest canine influenza outbreak in Chicago. Over 1,000 dogs have now reportedly been infected and five have died with the epidemic canine dog flu.
Canine influenza is a rare dog flu that is highly contagious. It spreads when dogs touch noses with other dogs or come in contact with each other's saliva.
The bird flu has alarmed many due to it's fast infection rate in Asia in the past. Canine dog flu doesn't affect humans, unlike the bird flu. However, people can still function as carriers since they are still capable of carrying the flu on their clothes within 24 hours. Therefore, it is advised to stay away from dogs suspected to be infected with the disease.
Canine Influenza is not deadly. The disease can however manifest a number of symptoms such as appetite loss, dehydration, fever and moderate to sever coughing. Carriers of canine influenza might not display any of these symptoms unfortunately.
Dogs found in places like day care, boarding, group training classes, groomers, and parks are at highest risk. Veterinary experts have shared ways to prevent your pets from getting infected by the outbreak. While you may think your dog is not at risk, it is still important to take necessary measures until the canine influenza outbreak is controlled. In this way, you are preempting any possible threat not only to your pet but to others as well.
Here are 10 ways you can protect your dog:
1. Isolate your dog
The most effective precaution against the outbreak is to keep your dog away from other dogs. Canine influenza is a highly contagious diseases that can be transmitted easily by touching noses and exchange of saliva. Isolation is key to any outbreak.
2. Practice proper hygiene after touching your dog
Humans are the least to be infected by canine dog flu. Unfortunately, humans can transfer or be carriers of it by merely touching an infected dog. It is important the dog owners practice proper washing of hands before and after touching their pets.
3. Change your clothes and sanitize furniture in case of contact with dogs
Canine influenza is able to survive fabric for a span of 24 hours. Changing clothes before and after contact with your own pets is highly recommended to prevent any possible transfer of the disease.
4. Isolate infected dogs
Canine flu may or may not exhibit symptoms, depending on the dog. In cases when infection is suspected, it is important to isolate your dog from others as soon as possible. Most dogs are already contagious before any symptoms are evident, therefore keeping them away from other dogs may prevent further infection to others. Keep infected dogs in isolation for two weeks from the onset of symptoms.
5. Disinfect hard surfaces
Canine flu is able to survive hard surfaces for up to 48 hours. Any suspected dog that interacted with a hard surface or object (such as a toy) may infect others. Thoroughly disinfect the said object and prevent any access to it for a few days.
6. Use gloves when dealing with dogs
If your job requires constant exposure to dogs, you might be at highest risk to becoming carrier for the canine influenza. Wearing gloves around dogs will be a best precaution. Gloves can protect you from accidentally getting in contact with any bodily fluids contamination dog's cages and other surfaces.
7. Practice caution when taking you dog to the vet
It is mandated by most veterinary clinics in the country to request if dogs can be kept inside the cars during examination. Vet clinics are exposed to many dogs, therefore, at high risk of getting in contact with the infected ones. If you suspect you pet to be infected, keeping him in the car will prevent further spread of the flu. While some procedures may require going inside the vet clinic, other minor routine visits such as check up or examination may be done in the car.
8. Ensure all vaccinations are completed
Getting vaccination is the best precautionary measure if you have multiple dogs or if your pet has spent time inside a kennel or a vet clinic. The vaccine may cost approximately $30. Fortunately, the flu has not exhibited signs of mutation unlike human flu- therefore vaccination will protect your dog significantly. The vaccine is given in two doses from 2 to 4 weeks apart.
9. If your dog exhibit any one of the symptoms, seek treatment
Any flu in general will subside after it is able to run its course inside the infected body for a certain period of time. In case your dog is infected, managing his symptoms will ensure his comfort and prevent the flu from developing further into pneumonia. It will also prevent infection of other dogs. Discuss with your vet any medication options that can reduce your dog's symptoms. The flu can travel up to 20 feet once airborne. Managing your dog's coughing will also be a great precautionary measure to avoid further spreading of the flu.
To date, the outbreak has only been mainly seen in Chicago. However, other cases have also been documented in other parts of the country. It is important to keep yourself informed and updated with the news about the canine dog flu. Make sure all necessary safety measures are done especially if cases become more rampant in areas near you.
