Good Morning Gloucester

Woof…Woof…Dr. Ray Cahill Writes~We wanted to offer to help answer questions and hopefully quell concerns about the Canine Influenza Virus that has now spread to the North Shore. Here’s a primer with a link to some reliable information if you think it’s blogworthy.

Best,

Ray Cahill

SeaPort Vet Hospital

CANINE INFLUENZA HITS CAPE ANN… don’t panic :))

According to the State Veterinarian, multiple cases of Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) have been confirmed in dogs on the North Shore. All cases were reportedly exposed at the same day care facility in Ipswich.

The main thing to know is that this is not an epidemic. Canine Influenza is new to our area, and there is no need for alarm. Owners whose dogs go to daycare, boarding facilities or dogs shows are already familiar with the risks of traditional kennel cough and how to help protect their dogs via vaccination. CIV (the symptoms of which mimic those of kennel cough) presents one more challenge to dog care facilities and the pets that visit them. Those facilities may already be considering whether or not to require the influenza vaccine.

The Canine Influenza Virus is highly contagious between dogs but will not transmit to people or other species. Not all dogs become sick when exposed, and serious illness from CIV is uncommon. Also, just like for most diseases, dogs that are sick, immunocompromised or very young are considered most at risk.

Reliable information about CIV can be found at:

http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2146