Canine Flu
Canine flu is now being reported in our area! Several local kennel facilities have already told us that they will be requiring vaccination for all dogs accepted for boarding this summer.
Canine influenza is caused by the canine influenza virus (H3N8). It is a relatively new disease in dogs, only identified in 2005. Because most dogs have not been exposed to the virus, their immune systems are not able to fully respond to the virus; many (if not all) of them will become infected when they are exposed. Although all infected dogs will be able to spread the virus, not all of them will experience obvious clinical signs. Canine influenza is spread through aerosolized respiratory secretions and contaminated objects (such as bowls, collars and leashes). The virus can survive for up to 48 hours on surfaces, up to 24 hours on clothing, and up to 12 hours on people's hands.
Dogs can be shedding the virus before they even show signs of illness, which means an apparently healthy dog can still infect other dogs. Dogs with canine influenza develop coughing, a fever and a snotty nose, which are the same signs observed when a dog has kennel cough.
There is a vaccine for canine influenza and, at this time, it is not recommended for every dog. However, with fears of rapid spread in a kennel setting, more boarding facilities may require immunization for boarded dogs as we approach the busy summer months.
For more information, please click on this link: canine influenza. To discuss this disease as it relates to your dog, or to schedule a vaccination appointment, call us at any time.
Check out AVMA's, Animal Tracks, a weekly podcast on animal health issues.
Breaking News:
Canine Influenza Update »
Animal Care Help:
Handouts on Pet Care and Training »
Educational Videos (e.g., dog training) »
When to see your vet:
Five reasons to see your veterinarian today
- Bleeding from anywhere
- Vomiting with a loss of appetite
- Acute pain – including eyes (squinting)
- Respiratory difficulty
- Sudden and extreme lethargy
Five reasons to see your veterinarian tomorrow
- Acute lameness
- Intense itching
- Decreased appetite
- Increased thirst or urination
- Persistent diarrhea
Five reasons to see your veterinarian soon
- Decrease in weight
- Change in activity levels
- Hair loss
- Bad breath
- Chronic lameness
Dental Health
PetFit Challenge
Pet owners understand that obesity is about more than appearance. Scientific evidence shows that obesity is a condition that can lead to serious disease. In conjunction with the AVMA and Hill’s our hospital is focused on raising awareness about the right way to achieve and maintain healthy weight:
- Proper nutrition
- Increased physical activity
- Regular veterinary visits
Click on the link above for tools to help you increase your pet’s activity, decrease their weight and start them living a happier and healthier life!
Bond Animal Hospital
250 Central Avenue
White Plains, New York 10606
general map |
view map»
Legal Notice | General Website Disclaimer
Website errors? Contact the Healthcommunities.com webmaster.
Please provide the website address in your message.
(Messages sent to Healthcommunities.com will not reach the practice.)
© 1998–2010 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All rights reserved.
Medical Website Design by Healthcommunities.com