Protect Fido from the "flu"

Meadowlake Pet Resort is a combination pet hotel, university, spa and doggie camp offering lodging, grooming, training, and daycare services.  Even with all these amenities, Meadowlake does not offer veterinarian care, and often seeks advice from local veterinarians.  After hearing about a relatively new disease caused by a "flu" virus that has recently entered Texas, Meadowlake consulted with local veterinarian, Dr. Collins at Shadow Creek Veterinary Clinic in Pearland Texas.  Meadowlake's staff was briefed about the potentially fatal disease called Canine Influenza and would like to share that information to everyone during National Pet Week. 

There are 38 states that have reported cases on Canine Influenza which is spread by direct contact, the air, and through contaminated surfaces.  The symptoms of Canine Influenza include a cough, low-grade fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy and loss of appetite.  To a concerned dog owner, these symptoms can be easily mistaken as Bordetella (Canine Cough).  Only your veterinarian can confirm that it is flu by taking a blood or nasal swab sample.  The easiest way to protect your pooch is to have your vet administer the initial vaccine and the booster, which typically takes about 3 weeks.  As with any ailment or vaccination, please consult your veterinarian to further learn about the potential hazards the flu could cause.  This is the first step all pet owners should take.  Houston may be facing this flu head on, since it is believed that Canine Influenza was found at the Greyhound track in April, as Fox 26 reports.  For more information about the flu, please visit www.doginfluenza.com.

Please be aware that Meadowlake is not requiring this vaccination at this time, but it is highly recommended for all clients.  

Source of information: Merck Animal Health, 2011 Interevt Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co, Inc. Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA.