Canine Influenza Virus In Beagle Dogs
It was around 2,000 years ago when Beagle dogs first came into existence. In fact it has been depicted in various literature and paintings during the time of Queen Elizabeth. Even today, Beagle dogs are popular subject on televisions, film and comic books. Just like other breed of dogs, Beagle dogs can also develop canine influenza, a newly identified disease affecting dogs.
Canine influenza or canine flu appears to be similar to Kennel cough or Canine Tracheobronchitis. This disease, a common infection in horses has transferred to dogs because of the exposure at greyhound track wherein horse racing and dog racing took place. Dogs kept together spread this disease easily, but could also be passed on the street or in kennels. This airborne disease is spread by infected dogs through sneezing or coughing on another. This is also spread through direct contact with a contaminated surface.
After a dog is exposed to the virus, symptoms usually appear two to five days. These symptoms include sneezing, coughing and fever. The severity of this disease is categorized into two; mild infection and severe infection. Dogs with mild infection of canine influenza experience soft, moist cough that lasts for around ten to thirty days, some dogs however have dry cough. Low-grade fever as well as thick nasal discharge is also present in this condition. On the other hand, symptoms of severe infection include fever, increased respiratory rates with difficulty in breathing and other clinical signs of pneumonia. Fever ranges from 104 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nasal discharge in mild infection can be treated with broad-spectrum bactericidal antimicrobial. Antibiotic is also used in treating this disease. Pneumonia caused by bacterial superinfection often accompanies this disease. This condition is best treated with hydration through intravenous administration of fluids. Broad-spectrum bactericidal antimicrobial is also used in treating severe infection of canine influenza. If your dog is showing any or all of these signs, consult your veterinarian immediately. Your vet’s diagnosis is important in treating this canine disease.
Sad to say, vaccination against this disease is not yet available. Prevention of this disease greatly relies on the owner. Contact to other dogs known to have canine influenza should be avoided.
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