Saturday, September 26, 2009


Canine Influenza Virus Vaccine

Canine Influenza Virus: Is Fido at Risk?

"Lately dog owners are hearing more about the canine influenza virus or CIV...

"'Symptoms are very similar to an upper respiratory infection you or I might get, a runny nose, (and a) cough,' said Dr. Kristi Oldham of the Bees Ferry Veterinary Hospital...

"According to Oldham the symptoms last between seven to ten days. In very rare cases CIV can lead to other complications that can kill a dog, such as pneumonia.

"'If it's already immune compromised with something else, maybe its got poor nutrition for one reason or another, or has some other immune problem of sorts,' said Oldham.

"Humans cannot get CIV. ...According to Oldham, at this point, only owners of social dogs traveling outside the state should even consider the annual vaccine which costs about $20."

(read entire article)

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Aksum Notes: Yes, this blog is primarily about cats, but many cat owners are also dog owners. This is a much misunderstood canine virus among the public. If you are concerned about your dog getting an upper respiratory virus that lasts 7-10 days, talk to your vet about your dog and whether the vaccine is needed. But please do understand that too many vaccinations are bad, too, especially if they are not necessary. If your dog is in good health and does not come into contact with other dogs outside of the household, then the vaccine is probably not necessary. As always, your veterinarian is the expert, not me, so let your veterinarian be your guide in this decision.

-AksumAbys

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