Dog flu spreads to South Dakota
Pet owners are being advised to keep their dogs at home, and to avoid places where they would come into contact with other dogs.
Vets in South Dakota are dealing with an outbreak of the H3N2 strain of canine influenza virus. It is the second time the strain has been seen in North America and has affected dozens of dogs in the area.
First seen in Asia last year, the H3N2 was discovered in the Chicago area earlier this year. The third case was confirmed in the Rapid City area of South Dakota last Tuesday (2 June).
The disease is primarily respiratory, so coughing and fever are the most common symptoms as well as lethargy.
Although not generally fatal, the highly contagious disease is transmitted among dogs by direct contact with infected dogs or by contact with contaminated objects.
Speaking to the Rapid City Journal, Melissa Mez, the vet responsible for diagnosing two of the three dogs with confirmed H3N2, said: "In the past 10 days we have probably seen 18 to 22 dogs that have shown these symptoms.
"I am concerned because of the number of dogs that socialise with other dogs on a daily basis. We have a large number of dogs that go to day care, to boarding, to grooming, to dog parks and dogs are very mobile."
Dogs struck by the flu are being treated with antibiotics, cough medicine, fever reducers and appetite stimulants. They are also being kept well hydrated.
Until vets understand where the outbreak is heading, pet owners are being advised to keep their dogs at home, and to avoid places where they would come into contact with other dogs.
Dr Lindsey Morette, a vet at the Rapid City Animal Clinic, added: "We rarely do see such an outbreak of a massive disease that affects so many dogs in the same way.
"You feel so bad for them because they can't rest or breath normally."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
