Hi Everyone,
We wanted to share some new information with you regarding canine influenza (yes, the flu no longer only effects us humans). Luckily, we have not heard of any cases in our area, but we want everyone to be aware that it has reached the west coast.
Please note: A canine influenza outbreak is occurring in San Francisco and we are simply taking early, proactive, preventative measures. There is no evidence the virus has reached the greater Portland area.
This is a highly contagious and potentially lethal viral infection in dogs.
The clinical signs to look for are as follows:
“The most common clinical signs are coughing, lethargy, pyrexia (fever), sneezing, ocular discharge, and clear to mucopurulent nasal discharge. Dyspnea (difficulty breathing) may also be seen in severe cases, especially with H3N2 infection. Fever usually only occurs in the beginning stages of infection and is often low grade. Cough is usually dry and nonproductive. If pneumonia is present, clinical signs can also include more significant pyrexia, a productive cough, tachypnea, and/or dyspnea.”
Treatment for the flu is supportive. There is a vaccine available and we can get them if needed.
We will be following very strict isolation and cleaning protocols if we have a case, or suspected case, here in the clinic to keep it from spreading. Our front desk team will go over that protocol with you if you need to make an appointment.
Since many people in our area travel with their pets, please know that we will ask about your travel history and please know that the following activities can increase the risk of exposure – doggy daycare, playing at public parks, walks in public areas where the patient may have come in contact with other dogs.
We want all of our 4 legged family members to be safe and healthy which is why we want to share this information with you. Again, the outbreaks have only been reported in the San Francisco area, at this time, and there has been no evidence that it has reached the greater Portland area.
Thanks,
Your friends at Orchard Hills Animal Hospital