What is the mysterious dog flu?

Dear reader, recent news about the mysterious dog flu has been flooding the internet, newspapers, and Facebook. I spoke with a few of the local veterinarians to find out if this is a problem here in Churchill County. The veterinarians I spoke with said there are no cases recorded. Whew!

One local veterinarian, assured me there was no need to panic because over the entire United States there have only been about 200 dogs in 14 states who have been diagnosed positive. Dr. Jandrey at UC Davis issued a statement telling pet owners to remain aware and diligent but not to sound the alarm that a pandemic is coming for dogs.

Most cases of the new flu remain mild and cause coughing, sneezing, and possible cases of pneumonia. While some dogs have died from the illness, it is rare. So far, the cases are sporadic, pocketed throughout different areas of the United States and, fortunately, it is not spreading at a rapid rate. I will keep you informed as more information becomes available.

Dog owners can help keep their pets healthy by making sure they are up-to-date on all vaccines, such as those for canine influenza, Bordetella, and Parainfluenze. Other tips include keeping your dog away from sick dogs and avoiding communal water bowls shared by multiple dogs.

The common canine influenza is a virus and there are two dominant types, H3N8 and H3N2. The viruses cause respiratory illness in dogs. Occasionally these viruses can develop into other bacterial or viral infections known as “canine infectious respiratory disease complex.”

Some of the symptoms include fever, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, lethargy, and loss of appetite. However, the only way to know for sure if your dog is sick is to have your veterinarian test for flu. It is especially prudent to have very young or very old dogs tested. Most dogs recover in a couple of weeks but the cough may last longer.

Vaccines for the viruses are available for both types of flu. The vaccines will lessen their effect. It is a good idea to check with your veterinarian.

ATTENTION

If you are looking for a gift that keeps on giving, please donate funds or items.

Funds: CAPS website: http://www.caps.nonprofix.com/donate/

Items: http://www.chewy.com/g/churchill-animal-protection-society b90304381#wish-list&wishlistsortby=DEFAULT

LOOKING FOR A HOME

We have four 13-week-old pitbull-mix puppies available to foster and two handsome 15-month-old male puppies. BG and Diego are anxiously waiting to find their forever homes. Cat lovers, we have seven gray tabby and four black four-month-old kittens. They are cute!

IN NEED OF

Board members. We are seeking energetic, enthusiastic, community-minded folks to serve on the CAPS board. We meet once a month. Call 775-423-7500 for details.

Bleach, laundry detergent pods, toilet paper, and paper towels to stock our shelter.

XXL Kong Extremes for our guests.

Would you like to foster animals? Call CAPS for details.

Aluminum cans. We will pick up your cans; give us a call at 775-423-7500. You can also drop them off at CAPS.

SHOUT OUT TO

All the folks who donated to our Giving Tuesday fundraiser. All tails are wagging for you!

Two Sisters Boutique for hosting pictures with Santa. Pooch Smooches to you!

The kind person who left bags of Victor dog food at our gate. A Four Paw Salute to you!

COME SEE US

CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.

DON’T FORGET

December Holiday: National Mutt Day. Make every day your mutt’s day!

Would you like a newsletter? Call 775-423-7500 or email caps@cccom.net.

CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are likeable.

Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer. Email jkwmil@outlook.com.