Vets Warn of Dangerous Canine Flu Strain Spreading into Area

Veterinarians are warning that a dangerous strain of canine influenza is spreading across the New York metro area.The virus (H3N2) first appeared in Brooklyn in April, and there have been dozens of confirmed cases across the boroughs.

Pet parents in Fairfield County need to be on the alert, says local pet care expert Traci Simo of Canine Company. “Canine flu is a virulent respiratory disease that is easily transmissible. Our vet tells us there’s a high probability we will see it in Fairfield County soon, so families with dogs should learn how to protect their pets from exposure.”

Canine flu spreads when an infected dog sneezes or coughs, spraying virus into the air and surroundings. Pets are most likely to be infected at places where dogs spend time in close quarters -- like boarding kennels, day care facilities and grooming salons.

Symptoms include high fever, coughing, loss of appetite and lethargy and can last for two to three weeks. There are no drugs to treat canine influenza; the illness must run its course. While most dogs recover, 10 to 15 percent end up with pneumonia. Puppies and older dogs are at greatest risk.

Simo encourages pet parents to take steps to protect their dogs before flu cases are confirmed in the local area:

• Avoid social situations such boarding kennels and doggy daycares. Even grooming salons can be problematic. Consider using mobile grooming, in-home pet sitting or dog walking until the epidemic passes, especially if your pet is in a higher-risk group.
• Have dogs vaccinated against the virus. A trip to the vet now may prevent or -- at least reduce the severity of -- infection.

Finally, she says, if your dog shows flu symptoms, get him to the vet promptly for assessment and treatment. And, if heis diagnosed with canine flu, keep him away from other dogs for at least three weeks so he doesn’t spread the disease.

About Canine Company

Born of a family’s love for dogs, Canine Company has been helping families keep their pets healthy, safe and happy for 35 years. The company serves pet parents across New England, New York and New Jersey with the Invisible Fence® brand systems, Manners dog obedience training, and mobile grooming and pet sitting in select markets. For more information, call 800-818-3647 or visit www.caninecompany.com.