What dog owners need to know about Canine Flu
Do you board your dog, have your dog professionally groomed, take your dog to daycare, a park, or training classes? Does your dog travel with you? If you answer yes to any of the previous questions then your dog would benefit from Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) vaccines.
This month there have been several positive cases of CIV from a kennel in Washington State (Seattle area), and more recently, a positive case here in Montana (Helena). Just like the Flu viruses that trouble people, the Canine Flu has more than one strain. The newer strain of CIV the H3N2 is the culprit in both Seattle and Helena.
Once the viruses are in an area, the chances of these diseases spreading are extremely high. CIV is a relatively new virus, and dogs have no natural immunity to it. It is spread by direct contact of dogs- (when they lick or nuzzle each other), from droplets in the air when they cough or sneeze, and from objects and people that have been exposed. Up to 80% of infected dogs will develop a mild form of CIV (runny nose, cough, fever), while 20% will show no clinical signs but will still be highly contagious, and 10-20% of infected dogs will develop a more severe form that can lead to pneumonia, and/or additional complications. When the first CIV vaccine (H3N8) became available in May 2009, the disease had been confirmed in 30 states; as of October 2015 the number has increased to 41. With the latest outbreak in Seattle and Helena the newer strain (H3N2) has now been confirmed in 27 states.
The CIV vaccines are recommended for any dog that gets the Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine on a yearly basis- Dogs that travel, board, go to the dog park, visit with other dogs, run on the trails, or take training courses are at risk of exposure. Like any other vaccine is not going to prevent your dog from getting the Influenza Virus but will greatly lessen the severity and length of this virus. For more information you can visit www.doginfluenza.com.
As your Veterinary Team, we want to make sure that you are informed of the risks to your pet, and that you are aware of the vaccines available if you feel the risk applies to your dog. As with all of our vaccine protocols we feel the best medicine is to tailor vaccination protocols to meet the needs of our patients.
We are offering the information to our clients so that they can make an informed choice as to whether or not they want to vaccinate. If your pet exhibits symptoms of coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, or a fever, please keep your dog at home (limit their exposure to other dogs) and call us right away.
Kevin Morrell, DVM
Elizabeth Pitman, DVM
Do you board your dog, have your dog professionally groomed, take your dog to daycare, a park, or training classes? Does your dog travel with you? If you answer yes to any of the previous questions then your dog would benefit from Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) vaccines.
This month there have been several positive cases of CIV from a kennel in Washington State (Seattle area), and more recently, a positive case here in Montana (Helena). Just like the Flu viruses that trouble people, the Canine Flu has more than one strain. The newer strain of CIV the H3N2 is the culprit in both Seattle and Helena.
Once the viruses are in an area, the chances of these diseases spreading are extremely high. CIV is a relatively new virus, and dogs have no natural immunity to it. It is spread by direct contact of dogs- (when they lick or nuzzle each other), from droplets in the air when they cough or sneeze, and from objects and people that have been exposed. Up to 80% of infected dogs will develop a mild form of CIV (runny nose, cough, fever), while 20% will show no clinical signs but will still be highly contagious, and 10-20% of infected dogs will develop a more severe form that can lead to pneumonia, and/or additional complications. When the first CIV vaccine (H3N8) became available in May 2009, the disease had been confirmed in 30 states; as of October 2015 the number has increased to 41. With the latest outbreak in Seattle and Helena the newer strain (H3N2) has now been confirmed in 27 states.
The CIV vaccines are recommended for any dog that gets the Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine on a yearly basis- Dogs that travel, board, go to the dog park, visit with other dogs, run on the trails, or take training courses are at risk of exposure. Like any other vaccine is not going to prevent your dog from getting the Influenza Virus but will greatly lessen the severity and length of this virus. For more information you can visit www.doginfluenza.com.
As your Veterinary Team, we want to make sure that you are informed of the risks to your pet, and that you are aware of the vaccines available if you feel the risk applies to your dog. As with all of our vaccine protocols we feel the best medicine is to tailor vaccination protocols to meet the needs of our patients.
We are offering the information to our clients so that they can make an informed choice as to whether or not they want to vaccinate. If your pet exhibits symptoms of coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, or a fever, please keep your dog at home (limit their exposure to other dogs) and call us right away.
Kevin Morrell, DVM
Elizabeth Pitman, DVM
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Frequently Asked Questions:
What shots does my puppy/kitten need?
The answer to that question depends on how old your dog is and what shots it has been given thus far. It is important for puppies (and kittens) to recieve multiple vaccines to boost their immune system in order for them to fend off easily preventable diseases such as parvo virus and distemper. An initial consultation with one of our veterinarians is a great way to figure out the best vaccine schedule for your animal, but feel free to call us and we can assess what is needed over the phone. Typically, they will have vaccines at 8,12, and 16 weeks of age.
How often does my dog/cat need to be examined?
Pets age much faster than people. 1 year in our life is equivalent to 5-10 years in your pet's life. Because pets age more rapidly than us, it is important to have your pet examined a minimum of once every year.
I have an older dog/cat, what special considerations are there for "senior" animals?
There are many special considerations that are taken for "senior" animals. If your pet is seven years old or older, we consider them to be a senior. Even though your pet may appear normal, they may have underlying problems that may not be obvious until they become life-threatening. For this reason we have created our Senior Health Program (click to learn more). This comprehensive examination allows us to help identify problems early, in order to initiate preventative treatment, and hopefully prolong the quality of your pet's life.
What is heartworm and how do I prevent it?
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by a parasitic worm that preferentially resides in the heart and major arteries of mammals. Heartworm has been reported in all 50 states and animals of any age and breed are susceptible to the infection. There are a variety of ways to prevent it, but most commonly heartworm can be prevented by taking a once monthly medication. Our veterinarians and support team can help you choose the best options to prevent this potentially deadly disease.
What age should I neuter/spay my animal?
We recommend neuter and spay at 6 months of age as a general rule for puppies and kittens. Sometimes based on breed, age, or health we will recommend surgical sterilization for animals at different ages. Spaying and neutering is an important part of your pet's health, as well as a responsible option to help control the pet population.
My cat gets so nervous/scared when he comes to the vet. What can I do to make it a better experience for him?
Linus
Cats are masters at hiding illness and pain. Routine examinations are a very important part of maintaining the health of our feline friends.
Below are a few tips for having a successful trip to the veterinarian with your feline friend(s)
The Carrier:
Always transport your cat in a carrier or pet safe container
You can train your cat to view the carrier as a safe haven or “Home away from Home” by keeping it out in the house. Put treats, favorite toys or a blanket inside.
Carriers that open both on top and in the front are recommended. Top loading carriers allow easier access to the animal and can be helpful for getting a cat in and out of the carrier safely.
Bring your cat’s favorite treats, toys, and blankets. If they enjoy grooming- bring their favorite brush.
The Car Ride:
If possible take your cat for regular short trips in the car.
To avoid motion sickness, don’t feed your cat at for at least an hour prior to the trip.
At the Hospital:
Reward good behaviors (even the small ones) with treats, verbal praise, and petting, massaging and playing.
Remain calm and use a soft soothing voice. If the situation is upsetting for you- it may be best to leave the exam room.
Allow the trained veterinary team to handle your cat. Even the sweetest and most laid back cat can become fearful in a strange and stressful environment. Anxiety can cause them to act out of character and bite or scratch.
Be open to discussion on techniques that might make future visits more relaxing for both you and your cat.
Below are a few tips for having a successful trip to the veterinarian with your feline friend(s)
The Carrier:
Always transport your cat in a carrier or pet safe container
You can train your cat to view the carrier as a safe haven or “Home away from Home” by keeping it out in the house. Put treats, favorite toys or a blanket inside.
Carriers that open both on top and in the front are recommended. Top loading carriers allow easier access to the animal and can be helpful for getting a cat in and out of the carrier safely.
Bring your cat’s favorite treats, toys, and blankets. If they enjoy grooming- bring their favorite brush.
The Car Ride:
If possible take your cat for regular short trips in the car.
To avoid motion sickness, don’t feed your cat at for at least an hour prior to the trip.
At the Hospital:
Reward good behaviors (even the small ones) with treats, verbal praise, and petting, massaging and playing.
Remain calm and use a soft soothing voice. If the situation is upsetting for you- it may be best to leave the exam room.
Allow the trained veterinary team to handle your cat. Even the sweetest and most laid back cat can become fearful in a strange and stressful environment. Anxiety can cause them to act out of character and bite or scratch.
Be open to discussion on techniques that might make future visits more relaxing for both you and your cat.
