Its up to you to watch out for canine influenza

The topic of canine influenza is in the media. From newspapers to social media, it's a concern for those of us who share their lives with dogs.

The AVMA, ASPCA, CDC and doginfluenza.com all provide information about the canine influenza virus.

Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is a highly contagious respiratory disease that has affected thousands of dogs in the United States. CIV was first reported in dogs in Florida in 2004, and the virus has spread.

Canine influenza has been documented in 40 states, including Illinois. Since CIV is a relatively new virus, most dogs have not been exposed to it before and are not immune to it, making them susceptible to the virus. Dogs of any age and breed are susceptible to CIV.

CIV is easily transmitted between dogs through respiratory secretions. The virus does not survive for a long time in the environment, so dogs usually get CIV when they are in proximity to other infectious dogs. CIV is easily spread by direct contact such as when dogs kiss, lick or nuzzle each other; droplets in the air from a cough or sneeze; or contaminated objects such as dog bowls, doorknobs or clothing.

Any dog who interacts with large numbers of dogs is at increased risk for exposure, including dogs who attend doggy day care, go to groomers or dog parks or board regularly.

Symptoms of CIV are coughing, sneezing, fever, nasal discharge, rapid/difficult breathing, loss of appetite and lethargy.

If quickly diagnosed and treated, the fatality rate is quite low. Deaths are usually caused by secondary complications such as pneumonia. It is very important dogs with CIV get proper veterinary care.

Treatment of CIV includes medications to treat and protect against secondary bacterial infections, intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and good nutrition and supplements to raise immunity and treatment for pneumonia.

Any dog infected with CIV should be kept isolated from other dogs for 10-14 days. Dogs are most infectious before symptoms are present and can continue spreading the virus for about 10 days.

There is an approved vaccination for Canine Influenza Virus. If you have any questions regarding CIV, including vaccinating your dog, contact you veterinarian. Our dogs depend on us to keep them healthy.

• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W, Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is a nonprofit (501c3), all volunteer, no-kill animal shelter dedicated to the welfare of stray, abused and abandoned cats and dogs. For information, call The Buddy Foundation at (847) 290-5806 or visit www.thebuddyfoundation.org.