Introduction
Influenza in dogs was once unheard of. Since an outbreak of canine influenza occurred in the State of Florida in 2004, canine influenza has continued to spread and more and more dogs are diagnosed with it each year. Canine influenza causes a cough for 10 – 30 days, and it is often accompanied by thick nasal discharge. In more serious cases high fevers and pneumonia occur. Fortunately the mortality rate for canine influenza is very low, and supportive treatments are highly successful.
Treating Canine Influenza
Canine influenza is caused by a virus, and much like flu viruses in people it has to run its course. There is no cure for canine influenza, but there are treatments that can reduce symptoms and fight secondary infections. Rest is the number one treatment for dogs suffering from influenza; they should be kept in a quiet environment, and their activities should be restricted. Plenty of fluids should be given, and in cases of moderate or severe dehydration subcutaneous or intravenous fluids and electrolytes are administered. If a secondary infection such as pneumonia or respiratory infections occur, antibiotics can be used to treat these infections. If the dog has a productive cough, cough suppressants are not recommended.
There is a lot of controversy surrounding the use of the drug Tamiflu to treat influenza in dogs. For now it is recommended that the drug is not used on dogs as the side effects and long term consequences are not known; additionally there is no evidence that Tamiflu has any effect on the course of canine influenza.