Warning: Canine Influenza Causes Two Canine Deaths in Montgomery County

Six canines were infected and two died from a canine influenza outbreak in Montgomery County, MD.  County officials have issued warnings to pet owners to ensure their pets are properly vaccinated and to be cautious when mixing with strange animals, such as in dog parks, grooming, boarding and daycare facilities.

The disease, which causes acute respiratory distress, is not usually fatal, but is highly contagious.  It can also develop into severe respiratory disease, especially in immune compromised animals, and can cause death. 

"The number of dogs infected with this disease that die is very small," according to the CDC. "Some dogs have asymptomatic infections (no symptoms), while some have severe infections. Severe illness is characterized by the onset of pneumonia. Although this is a relatively new cause of disease in dogs and nearly all dogs are susceptible to infection, about 80 percent of dogs will have a mild form of disease. (www.WTOP.com)

Before allowing your dog to come into contact with strange animals or high-risk environments (dog parks and boarding, grooming and daycare facilities), please make sure his canine influenza vaccine is up to date.  If your pet shows any signs of coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge or fever, please call your veterinarian immediately.