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Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) has been identified in our dog population in Westchester NY and Fairfield CT counties.

Providing protection for your pet from this contagious disease will be important. CIV is a respiratory infection that cannot be distinguished from "kennel cough" without specific diagnostic testing of blood and/or nasal swabs. The main clinical signs include a dry hacking cough. However, unlike "kennel cough," dogs may be lethargic, develop a fever, and have a poor appetite. Clinical signs can last a few weeks.

CIV is a new virus and dogs do not have any natural immunity to fight or prevent this infection. This means that essentially 100% of dogs exposed to the virus will be infected. Some 20% of infected dogs may not become sick but are able to spread the virus to other dogs. CIV can cause lung damage that leads to pneumonia and death rates can reach 5-8% of cases.

CIV is in our neighborhood and due to the high rate of illness (>80%) we need to plan to protect our pets. In the past we were not recommending the vaccine as the disease had not been detected in the area. Circumstances have changed! Kennels, doggy day cares, dog parks, and grooming facilities are reporting infections. The vaccination series consists of two vaccines given 2-4 weeks apart with a yearly booster vaccine. Protection starts after the second booster.

We are now recommending the vaccination for CIV if you are planning any dog boarding this summer or if your dog goes to a day care or dog park.

For more in-depth information on Canine Influenza Virus please visit our website:
http://www.poundridgevet.com/news.shtml

or this NY Times article from last summer:
http://consults.blogs.nytimes.com/

If you have any questions regarding this or any other issue please contact us at 914.764.4644. Your pet's health and well-being are always our greatest concern.

CIV Alert:

Canine Influenza outbreak in our community.

More Info >>

Check out AVMA's, Animal Tracks, a weekly podcast on animal health issues.

When to see your vet:

Five reasons to see your veterinarian today

• Bleeding from anywhere
• Vomiting with a loss of appetite
• Acute pain – including eyes (squinting)
• Respiratory difficulty
• Sudden and extreme lethargy

Five reasons to see your veterinarian tomorrow

• Acute lameness
• Intense itching
• Decreased appetite
• Increased thirst or urination
• Persistent diarrhea

Five reasons to see your veterinarian soon

• Decrease in weight
• Change in activity levels
• Hair loss
• Bad breath
• Chronic lameness

Dental Health

Shortcuts to Animal Care Help:

What to know about: Ice Melts

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PetFit Challenge

PetFit Challenge

Pet owners understand that obesity is about more than appearance. Scientific evidence shows that obesity is a condition that can lead to serious disease. In conjunction with the AVMA and Hill’s our hospital is focused on raising awareness about the right way to achieve and maintain healthy weight:

• Proper nutrition
• Increased physical activity
• Regular veterinary visits

Click on the link above for tools to help you increase your pet’s activity, decrease their weight and start them living a happier and healthier life!