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Dog Flu VirusThis page looks at dog flu virus that causes dogs to come down with canine influenza, and how to use natural remedies to support a sick dog's
immune system so it can fight off the flu.
Recently everyone is concerned about the new H1N1 flu virus (aka "swine flu"). Many dog parents wonder if their dogs can be infected with swine flu. Or worse, if
their dogs can catch and then spread the H1N1 flu virus to other dogs and members of human family.
According to CDC (Centers for Disaster Control and Prevention) and ASPCA, at this moment, there is no data demonstrating any risk of dogs (and cats) contracting the
swine flu virus.
The ability of any virus to jump species and sustain transmission depends on many factors and occurs infrequently. However, like all influenza viruses, swine flu
viruses change constantly. But if we look at history, there are no known human to dog (or vice versa) influenza transmissions.
Dog Flu VirusNow that we know swine flu, at this moment, cannot infect dogs, let's look at the dog flu virus that can cause our dogs to become sick. The canine influenza virus is an influenza A H3N8 influenza virus that was originally an equine (horse) flu virus. This virus has spread to dogs and can now spread between dogs, causing a respiratory disease called canine influenza. Canine influenza is a disease of dogs, not of humans. The number of dogs at risk from dying from this virus may be anywhere from 1 to 10%. History of Dog Flu Virus The original H3N8 equine influenza virus has been known to exist in horses for more than 40 years. In 2004, however, some greyhounds developed cases of an unknown respiratory illness, which was later found to be caused by the equine influenza A H3N8 virus. It is believed that this virus crossed species barriers (from horses to dogs) and has now adapted to infect dogs and spread among dogs. In September, 2005, this strain of virus was "officially" regarded as a new dog-specific lineage of H3N8. TopDog Flu Virus - Symptoms of Canine Influenza
Dogs infected with canine influenza may show some of the following symptoms:
Dog Flu Virus - How Does It Spread?Dog flu virus can be spread by direct contact with respiratory secretions from infected dogs. It can also be spread by contacting contaminated objects such as dog bowls and clothes. If your dog is coughing or showing other signs of dog flu, do not bring your dog to facilities where other dogs can be exposed to the virus. TopTreatment for Canine InfluenzaMost dogs infected with dog flu virus will recover with no treatment. However, a small percentage of dogs will develop more serious symptoms and sometimes even pneumonia which can be fatal. At present, conventional treatment largely consists of supportive care only. For example:
Natural Remedies for Canine InfluenzaNatural remedies such as herbs, minerals, and vitamins can be used to support the immune system of a dog infected with dog flu virus. By strengthening the dog's immune system, he will be more ready to fight off the virus and the infection will not last as long and the symptoms not as serious. Herbs that strengthen and support the immune system include echinacea, astragalus, cat's claw, as well as various mushrooms. In particular, reishi, maitake, and shiitake mushrooms have been found to have high levels of polysaccharides which have immune-enhancing properties. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and can also boost the immune system so that the body can fight off diseases. In addition, other antioxidants such as vitamins E, Coenzyme Q10, and green tea have been found to be effective in immune support. An excellent natural herbal supplement can be found here: Only Natural Pet Immune Strengthener Boost for Dogs and CatsReferences R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000). M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999). ASPCA - Swine Flu Little Risk to Cats and Dogs (http://www.aspca.org/pressroom/press-releases/042909-2.html). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Canine Influenza (Dog Flu) (http://www.cdc.gov/flu/canine/). TOP of Dog Flu Virus |
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