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News & Events

Dog flu hasn't hit Dallas-Fort Worth yet, but vaccinations available
09-28-2009

Man's best friend could soon be battling a problem that is facing his owners – the flu.

The good news is the canine influenza virus – or "dog flu"– hasn't hit North Texas yet. But that hasn't stopped people from taking precautions for their furry friends.

"We've vaccinated a couple hundred dogs for this," said Dr. Mac Todd, who has two clinics in Tarrant County.

Dog flu, scientifically known as H3N8, does not affect humans and is passed from dog to dog, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The virus existed in horses for 40-plus years until being discovered in a pack of greyhounds in 2004.

Nationally, the number of infected dogs that die is small. Most fully recover from the flu within two weeks. Unlike the human flu, the dog flu is not seasonal. The vaccination, which is given in shots two weeks apart, is available for the first time this year.

The current outbreak of dog flu is mainly centered on the East Coast and in Colorado. Dr. Todd said he has heard of some cases in Houston, but nowhere else in the state.

Dr. M.A. Crist of the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in College Station said she hasn't seen any cases of the dog flu and the A&M vet clinic has only received a few questions about it.

"These incidents have been in small pockets," Dr. Crist said. "I just don't see it right now. I might be wrong with that answer, but I don't see it at this point."

Trials determined that the vaccine, approved in May, reduces the duration and severity of the illness. It also lessens the ability of the virus to spread to other dogs.

"The marketing of the vaccine will trigger more questions rather than the disease itself," Dr. Crist said.

Dr. Todd said the vaccine isn't necessary for every dog. Dogs who stay at home, only go on walks in the neighborhood and rarely interact with other dogs won't need the vaccination. Dog flu does not target certain ages or particular breeds.

Those who board their dogs are at highest risk due to the close nature of the facilities and high amount of dogs there, he said.

Sarah Meleco, manager of The Petropolitan in downtown Dallas, said a few customers have asked whether any animals there have had the illness, but there have been no cases.

"I believe it's something that's more in the forefront of people's minds when they're looking for extended boarding," Meleco said.

Dog Flu Symptoms

Testing is available from your veterinarian to confirm if your pet has dog flu. Symptoms include:

•Runny nasal discharge

•Sneezing

•Coughing

•Fever

By MARK NORRIS

DFW's Ultimate Best 2010 - Best Pet Training