Important information on Canine Flu

The Ralston Vet Doctors want to inform you about precautions and preventive measures against the recent Midwest outbreak of Canine Influenza Virus (H3N2). Currently the closest confirmed case of Canine Influenza is in Sioux City, IA. We will continue to keep you updated with information as the need arises. What Is Canine Influenza H3N2? It is a dog flu that is highly contagious and causes respiratory infection in dogs.  It does not affect people or cats at this time.  The common symptoms are respiratory signs such as coughing, hacking, discharge from the nose or difficulty breathing. What can I do to prevent my dog from getting the flu? The best prevention is to limit exposure with other dogs. At risk environments include dog parks, doggy daycare, boarding facilities, dog social events, and grooming salons. We recommend that you avoid places with dog exposure where the health of the other dogs is uncertain.  Less likely exposure can be your back yard with neighbor dogs. Is there a Vaccine? No vaccine is available to protect against the H3N2 strain of Canine Influenza. The current flu vaccine H3N8 is not currently recommended by specialists. However, your pet needs to  be current on all vaccines as recommended by your veterinarian to protect against secondary infections of the respiratory tract. If my dog shows signs what is the treatment? Mild cases of the flu will be examined by the veterinarian and prescribed medications.  Severe cases can be treated with fluids and medications.  Diagnostics may be performed to confirm that your pet does in fact have Canine Influenza H3N2. When should I call Ralston Vet? If your dog has a newly developed cough with or without discharge from the nose, call 402-331-6322.  Please let our healthcare team know so the appropriate precautions can be taken to minimize the exposure to other patients and the possibility of contaminating our facility. For frequently asked questions click here. For more information on Canine Influenza H3N2 click here