Pet Sense (Archives)
Canine Influenza – can my dog catch the flu?
I often get asked can my dog catch the flu from me? The Answer is still NO, but interestingly we have identified a canine specific flu virus recently. Canine influenza, or canine flu, is an emerging respiratory tract disease that is similar to, or mimics, kennel cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica infection, infectious tracheobronchitis). However, unlike many cases of bordetellosis, the dog needs veterinary care. A highly contagious virus that was first identified in Florida causes canine influenza. Several severe respiratory outbreaks in racing greyhounds were caused by this virus. The disease appears to occur most frequently in high-density dog populations -- dogs who are housed with numerous other dogs in places such as shelters, clinics, boarding facilities, breeding kennels, pet stores, rescue groups, dog shows, and greyhound tracks. The disease is thought to have originated as a mutation of a strain of influenza that affects horses and is not related to typical human influenza strains or the avian flu. We have seen it, at All Creatures, only in dogs moved in from rescues in new Orleans.
First seen in greyhounds over the past 2 years, the influenza virus appears to be as contagious as other causes of kennel cough, and evidence indicates that perhaps 50% of infected dogs develop antibodies without showing any clinical disease at all. As with most cases of kennel cough, the clinical signs are generally mild, the disease resolves without treatment, and treatment does not noticeably alter the course and duration of the disease. For dogs suspected of having canine influenza, signs are fever, coughing, and decreased appetite and activity levels. Although this can look quite similar to routine ‘kennel cough,’ I would suggest taking dogs to a veterinarian at the first signs of illness, as intensive supportive care can be important in reducing fatalities.
Temperatures can quickly reach 106°F or more, but can return to near normal (or even become subnormal) as the disease progresses. The clinical onset can be rapid, with death occurring in 4 to 6 hours. Fortunately, these cases are easily rescued, if caught at the early stages, with appropriate fluid and antibiotic therapy. Given the clinical characteristics of the disease, prophylactic use of antibiotics appears warranted only in patients that are at greater risk of secondary bacterial infections. In short, while veterinarians may now have another cause of ‘kennel cough’ to deal with, the clinical course and treatment are the same.
Interesting Operations
“It takes a steady hand”
Sugar Gliders – have pouches – Most people are unaware that Sugar Gliders actually are marsupials. Small neonates live in the pouches for several weeks before emerging out. Examine this tiny helpless creature in the pouch. Sugar gliders make good pets but do not like the attention other domestic pets crave. They love to hide in their caves and dens, and emerge only at night. Most veterinarians do not treat them; we, however, see them occasionally for various issues including neutering, dehydration and overgrown teeth.
Fishhooks - Wilma Cunningham went fishing and got stuck. She managed to get hooked twice and had to be sedated to remove the treble hooks - the lures were not spared unfortunately.
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Cleft palate - this 2-day-old boxer pup has what’s called a cleft palate. He was born with a connection between his oral and nasal cavity. When ever these pups are born, they can die from not being able to nurse properly. Our plan with this pup, which is the only one of 8 with this issue, is to repair it at 6 weeks of age - once he’s weaned and ready for the real world. He will never win any beauty contests but our goal will be to make him a healthy, functional, happy pet - which should not be difficult, as most boxers are that way naturally.
Mouse Tumor – Dr. Meakin removed a mouse from a tumor, or was it a tumor from a mouse? This was amazing, as the tumor weighed as much as the mouse and the mouse lived after removing it. Cancer is common in small rodents and some dedicated owners will have surgery done to prolong their pets life. The human bond is intense even with small patients, and we recognize that at All Creatures and are happy to treat them regardless of size or species. The mouse is up to his normal stuff, running around, and we hope he lives out his 2-year life span.
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