Dog Flu Outbreak
Dog Flu Outbreak, Since the warning several days ago about canine influenza striking the dog community in and around Chicagoland, veterinarians in the area are now stating that due to the vast number of cases, more than 1,000, that this infectious respiratory disease has nearly reached epidemic proportions. Even while the flu is winding down for humans, it is affecting the canine community and has killed at least five dogs that veterinarians know of.
CBS news station WBBM-TV reported that one particular vet that they spoke with, Dr. Jerry Klein, has never seen an outbreak like this in his 35 years as a veterinarian. The near-epidemic is frightening. Just this particular vet is seeing about 15 cases every day.
Like stipulated last Wednesday, many of the cases have gone from the flue to pneumonia. Some of the dogs have had to go on oxygen and be ventilated.
Although human beings cannot get the canine flu, it is extremely contagious between canines. That is why the suggestion went out for people to avoid boarding, doggie daycare and even dog parks until the flu gets under control. On Friday, the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control again urgently requested this for the protection of all canines.
Dogs that are contracting the illness may have to be hospitalized if the infection goes too far. If hospitalized, they are typically placed in isolation. Due to this level of treatment, pet parents could potentially pay thousands of dollars.
The preventative is a much cheaper option. The annual vaccine which has been considered to be highly effective only costs about $100. While the vaccination may seem costly, the alternative is downright expensive.
Simply by one dog greeting another dog at a dog park, in a boarding or daycare facility or even at a groomer’s or veterinarian’s office, one dog could potentially be incubating and the other could catch it. Preventing this disaster is important.
Although our dogs are extremely important members of our families, no one has really tracked the number of cases of canine influenza unlike they have with the human variety of influenza. In fact, the disease was not even diagnosed until 2004. Since then 40 states have experienced outbreaks. To date, 2011, has been recorded as the worst year on record. That year 17 states recorded dogs having infections.
Unfortunately for Chicagoland, the outbreak could potentially last several more weeks. Pet parents need to be very careful during that time. Do yourself and your dog a favor and protect your pooch by keeping them out of harm’s way.
CBS news station WBBM-TV reported that one particular vet that they spoke with, Dr. Jerry Klein, has never seen an outbreak like this in his 35 years as a veterinarian. The near-epidemic is frightening. Just this particular vet is seeing about 15 cases every day.
Like stipulated last Wednesday, many of the cases have gone from the flue to pneumonia. Some of the dogs have had to go on oxygen and be ventilated.
Although human beings cannot get the canine flu, it is extremely contagious between canines. That is why the suggestion went out for people to avoid boarding, doggie daycare and even dog parks until the flu gets under control. On Friday, the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control again urgently requested this for the protection of all canines.
Dogs that are contracting the illness may have to be hospitalized if the infection goes too far. If hospitalized, they are typically placed in isolation. Due to this level of treatment, pet parents could potentially pay thousands of dollars.
The preventative is a much cheaper option. The annual vaccine which has been considered to be highly effective only costs about $100. While the vaccination may seem costly, the alternative is downright expensive.
Simply by one dog greeting another dog at a dog park, in a boarding or daycare facility or even at a groomer’s or veterinarian’s office, one dog could potentially be incubating and the other could catch it. Preventing this disaster is important.
Although our dogs are extremely important members of our families, no one has really tracked the number of cases of canine influenza unlike they have with the human variety of influenza. In fact, the disease was not even diagnosed until 2004. Since then 40 states have experienced outbreaks. To date, 2011, has been recorded as the worst year on record. That year 17 states recorded dogs having infections.
Unfortunately for Chicagoland, the outbreak could potentially last several more weeks. Pet parents need to be very careful during that time. Do yourself and your dog a favor and protect your pooch by keeping them out of harm’s way.