Canine Flu Threatens Mesa County
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (Nov. 9, 2011) – When you're worrying about getting your family members a flu shot, you should also think about your dog. Canine influenza is confirmed across 38 states, including Colorado, and one case within Mesa County. With the ease of travel, its prevalence is on the rise.
"Most dogs don't have immunity to the virus," Grand Junction Veterinarian and owner of Tiara Rado Animal Hospital Dr. Bob Marquis said, "so most dogs exposed will become infected."
Because most dogs are so susceptible to the virus, it is important to have them vaccinated prior to traveling or boarding for the holidays.
The canine flu is spread much like the human flu: direct contact, through the air due to coughing and sneezing and via contaminated surfaces.
"The canine influenza virus is very contagious and all Mesa County boarding facilities are requiring dogs to be vaccinated in order to prevent a large-scale outbreak," Marquis said.
Owners must plan ahead prior to boarding their dogs. Two doses of the vaccine must be given at least two weeks apart before boarding facilities will accept the dog. An annual revaccination with one dose is then recommended.
Marquis said canine flu is often misdiagnosed as canine cough or another respiratory condition because the symptoms are similar.
About Tiara Rado Animal Hospital Tiara Rado Animal Hospital, located at 2245-3/4 Broadway, is an American Animal Hospital Association accredited facility. The full-service, small animal veterinary hospital has served the Western Slope since 1983. In addition to complete preventative health care, Tiara Rado offers in-depth diagnostic services and it's one of the few western Colorado practices to provide a full-range of surgical services. Dr. Bob Marquis, Dr. Frank Coons, Dr. Julie Becker and the staff are committed to your family's pet and strive to provide the most complete care. Tiara Rado Animal Hospital can be reached at 970-243-4007, visiting www.tiararadoanimalhospital.com or join in the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/trahospital.
