With all the kerfuffle over the dangers of H1N1-A (otherwise known as “swine flu”) many people are now a little more educated about the flu virus and the implications of its various forms, and that different strains may even tend to infect different species. Meet H3N8, another mean ole’ flu, but rather than threatening humans, it could be a problem for your pooch instead.
From doggedhealth.com:
The H3N8 Virus was first identified in dogs in 2004 after an outbreak of the virus among Greyhounds at a Florida racetrack. The virus has now been found in 30 states plus the District of Columbia with Colorado, Florida, and the New York City metropolitan area having been hit hard. For the most part, the virus has been found in environments where dogs spend time in close quarters such as doggie daycare, kennels, shelters, dog parks and pet stores. Because the virus is new type of pathogen, dogs have no natural immunity and the virus can spread quickly.
According to an article in The Ledger, “Last week [during May 2009], the United States Department of Agriculture announced that it had approved the first vaccine for it.”
This flu appears to be particularly dangerous to dogs with short snub noses. Breeds with this particular feature include: Pug, Boston Terrier, Pekingese, Boxer, Bulldog, and Shih tzu. If you happen to enjoy the company of a dog who happens to have a snub nose, then you might be interested in talking to your veterinarian to see if this vaccine is right for your dog.