Are Dogs Safe From the Bird Flu?

Summary:

Learn the dangers of the dog catching the bird flu.

Article Body:

Avian influenza, also identified as bird flu or H5N1, is really a viral disease that most frequently impacts birds. It has appeared from time to time in regions around the planet. It may spread quickly amongst wild birds, but may also infect domestic birds such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and also can impact humans as well as other mammals. There is certainly a rising concern that the H5N1 virus could result in a flu pandememic.

The CDC says that dogs usually are not generally susceptilbe to avian influenza viruses. Nevertheless, the avian influenza A (H5N1) virus that emerged in Asia in 2003 has been documented to infect other carnivore species (e.g. cats, tigers, leopards, stone martens). This has raised concern that this strain of avian influenza A (H5N1) virus may possibly be capable of infecting dogs.  An unpublished report from 2005 by The National Institute of Animal Health in Bangkok indicated that dogs may be infected together with the virus, but the associated disease was not detected. Researchers tested 629 village dogs and 111 cats within the Suphan Buri district of central Thailand. Out of these, 160 dogs and eight cats had antibodies to H5N1, indicating that they had been infected together with the virus or had been infected in the past.

There were  news reports of a stray dog dying from bird flu (H5N1)in Azerbaiijan in March. This was the first reported death of a dog from the virus. So far, this appears to be an isolated situation. The World Wellness Organization(WHO) states on it is website that a much better understanding from the situation in animals is, nevertheless, urgently required.

So far, there is not sufficient information obtainable about H5N1 in dogs to know how infection would happen. Most human cases have come from contact with infected poultry or feces. Affected cats in Europe seem to have turn into infected by eating infected poultry or wild birds. It really is feasible dogs could be infected the same way.

If H5N1 is observed within your area, (at this time H5N1 has not been identified in North America), it could be a fantastic notion to maintain your dog indoors unless restrained, to avoid make contact with with infected birds and their feces. In case you have a hunting dog, you may need to reconsider employing it for retrieving downed birds. Report to the regional veterinary authority any evidence of substantial bird mortality, both wild and domestic.  If your dog shows breathing issues or nasal discharge, consult a veterinarian. Wash animal blankets with soap or any other commercial detergent.

An equine virus has not too long ago shown up in dogs in the U.S. It’s believed that the equine influenza virus mutated to create the canine influenza virus. This might be a slighlty higher threat for dogs than avian influenza. This inter-species re-assortment is just not uncommon for type A influenza viruses. It is unclear when this transition occurred.

Signs and symptoms of canine influenza might be comparable to kennel cough and consist of: a persistant, soft, moist cough, along with a thick nasal discharge. A lot more severe  circumstances may possibly consist of high fevers, pneumonia, and difficulty breathing, which can also be brought on by a secondary bacterial infection.

If your dog exhibits any of these symtpoms, consult your veterinarian.

So far, there has been no indication of transmission from dog to human. There’s no vaccine accessible at this time. Therapy is generally restricted to IV fluids to assist keep your dog hydrated or antibiotics to assist manage the infection.

For far more data regarding the Canine Influenza, and Avian Influenza check out:

www.avma.org/

www.cdc.gov/

So, is your dog protected from the bird flu? Nobody seems to have a solid answer 1 way or another at this time. Just a little caution could be warranted, but the choice is yours: Would you rather your prized hunting dog keep property underneath the bed as opposed to danger catching the bird flu, or be out leading the hunt, carrying out what he loves? The very best advise we’ve right this moment is always pay close interest to your dogs health. If your dog shows signs of ill health, consult your veterinarian. This will likely ensure you’ve a healthful, pleased companion for years to come.