Dogged By The Flu

In a recent posting I mentioned the “Old Maid” at the dog park and the possibility of dogs transmitting disease to each other. If you read the article it should come as no surprise that the old maid has been in a tizzy about the doggy flu (canine influenza – H3N8). As soon as he heard of it he whisked his pups off to the vet for vaccinations and, since then, has opined endlessly about the “dire epidemic” facing the canine population.

Apparently, the ASPCA is thinking along the same lines as they have announced today that they will be conducting a three-year study on canine influenza. Frankly, I think there’s probably a lot of hype to this (as with the swine flu) but I decided to do my own research. Here’s what I found….

From the CDC:  Key Facts About Canine Influenza

Things to know about the H3N8 dog flu

What you need to know

So, to sum up….  As I thought, the Old Maid was over-reacting as usual. A healthy dog is unlikely to catch the H3N8 virus and, if she does, will recover with normal care. Dogs most at risk for the flu (puppies and older or ill pets) are also most at risk of adverse reactions to the vaccine, so consider alternatives such as simple avoidance of other dogs and use a quality diet with immune-boosting supplements. If you still think perhaps you should vaccinate, then discuss your pet’s health with her doctor before making a decision.

“Dogs’ lives are too short. Their only fault, really.” ~ Agnes Sligh Turnbull