Canine check up

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. - U.S. Army Capt. Amanda J. Chamberlin, a veterinarian with the 55th Medical Operations Squadron, checks Sparky's heart during her visit to Offutt's Veterinary Clinic Nov. 6. The clinic offers a full range of care to all pets of active-duty and retired servicemembers. U.S. Air Force Photo by Josh Plueger

Taking a closer look

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. - U.S. Army Capt. Amanda J. Chamberlin, a veterinarian with the 55th Medical Operations Squadron, analyzes a sample taken from the ear of Venture, an English Cocker Spaniel, to determine the source of his ear ache, at Offutt's Veterinary Clinic Nov. 6. The primary mission of the clinic is to care for military working dogs. However, the facility also offers a full range of care to all pets of active-duty and retired servicemembers. U.S. Air Force Photo by Josh Plueger

Veterinary Clinic

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE - U.S. Army Capt. Amanda J. Chamberlin, a veterinarian with the 55th Medical Operations Squadron, draws blood from Sparky, a Husky at the Offutt's Veterinary Clinic Nov. 6. The clinic offers a full range of care to all pets of active-duty and retired servicemembers. U.S. Air Force Photo by Josh Plueger

What you should know about flu season, canine influenza

Published Nov. 10, 2009
By U.S. Army Capt. Amanda J. Chamberlin
55th Medical Operations Squadron

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- What is it?

- Canine influenza, or "dog flu" is a respiratory virus that only infects dogs. This virus was first found in racing greyhounds in 2004. To date, there is no evidence that people can get infected by this virus or catch the flu from their pet.

- Most dogs with canine influenza exhibit flu-like symptoms such as fever, lethargy, coughing, and nasal discharge. These symptoms typically resolve in one - two weeks. More severe cases may involve secondary bacterial infections leading to pneumonia, however this is rare and the mortality rate is only about 2 percent.

How does my dog get it?

- Canine influenza virus is shed directly from infected dogs in bodily secretions (nasal discharge, saliva, etc) and can survive a short time on toys, bowls, collars, etc.

- Currently, 30 states have reported cases of canine influenza, but of the 1,100 cases confirmed since 2004 none of these cases have come from Nebraska, Iowa or South Dakota.

What should I do if I think my dog has flu symptoms?

- Make an appointment with your veterinarian if your dog develops a runny nose, lethargy, or cough. These symptoms alone do not confirm your dog has canine influenza--there are several other respiratory pathogens that can infect dogs, including bordetella, parainfluenza, distemper, and adenovirus common components of the disease syndrome referred to as "kennel cough."

- Your veterinarian will likely perform a physical exam and may want to look at chest radiographs. Depending on the severity of symptoms, your dog may need supportive care, including special medications such as antibiotics, antivirals or nebulization therapy.

How can I prevent my dog from getting canine influenza?

- It is important to remember that infection with canine influenza is extremely rare. While a new vaccine exists, this vaccine hasn't been shown to completely prevent infection and isn't included in the normally required series of vaccinations. However, recent clinical trials suggest that the vaccine may significantly reduce severity and duration of illness and reduce shedding. This vaccine is generally recommended for dogs at high risk, such as those that live and play among large populations of other dogs, such as kennel or shelter situations, or in endemic areas.

- As always, it's important to ensure your dog receives routine vaccinations and has a physical exam at least annually. Offutt Veterinary Services provides low-cost vaccinations and basic sick call services for the pets of military members, family members and retirees.

To make an appointment, call 294-3089.