New Dog Disease Spreading: CIRDC
Can you get the flu from your dog?
Coughing, sneezing, fever? Fortunately the answer is No, although I am aware of an animal health tech that did test positive for Bordetella, so then it’s more like… very unlikely.
That being said, most dogs who do get the Canine Flu recover fine, and there are many other diseases to be concerned about. The least expensive, potentially most beneficial supplement I would have you consider are the omega 3 fatty acids.
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Several cases of canine influenza have been confirmed in central Arkansas, leading veterinarians to recommend increased precautions for dog owners. The disease does not affect humans, but is highly contagious among dogs and can be fatal.
About Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC)
The virus, known as CIRDC or canine infectious respiratory disease complex, impacts a dog’s respiratory tract and can lead to pneumonia. According to the Veterinary Medical Center at Ohio State University, CIRDC is “very common" and outbreaks can easily spread from dog to dog. It is also colloquially referred to as “kennel cough" or “canine cough."
Causes of CIRDC
“At least nine different bacteria and viruses have been linked as causes of CIRDC," reports OSU. These include:
- Bordetella bronchiseptica
- Canine adenovirus
- Canine distemper virus
- Canine herpesvirus
- Canine influenza virus
- Canine parainfluenza virus
- Canine respiratory coronavirus
- Mycoplasma cynos
- Streptococcus equi
Dr. Jones Comments on the Complexity of CIRDC
Dr. Jones explains that what was once thought to be caused primarily by the Bordetella bacteria or the Parainfluenza virus—key components of the Kennel Cough Vaccine—now appears to be caused by multiple pathogens. He notes, “The vaccine may not be effective, depending on the underlying cause."
Prevention and Response
Due to the contagious nature of the disease, most cases have been mild, but pet owners are urged to avoid dog parks and public settings with other dogs. Additionally, owners should keep their animals current on routine vaccines.
Treatment Recommendations
There is no specific medicine for treating kennel cough, and most dogs will recover with symptomatic home treatment unless severely ill. Key treatment recommendations include:
- Isolation: Keep the sick dog away from other dogs.
- Symptomatic Treatment:
- Remove Collar: To ease breathing.
- Increase Humidity: To help soothe the throat.
- Natural Remedies:
- Honey and Lemon Juice: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of honey with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice per 10lbs of body weight, diluted in warm water and given 2-3 times/day.
- Green Tea: As an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
- Slippery Elm: Mix in 400mg/10lbs daily to coat the throat and provide relief.
- Licorice Root Tincture: 1/2 ml per 20lbs twice daily for its antiviral properties.
- Elderberry: Standard dose is 100mg/10lbs twice daily, mixed with water and honey.
- Combination Remedy: Mix green tea, honey, and slippery elm; give 1/4 cup per 50lbs twice daily.
Monitoring for secondary pneumonia is crucial, as indicated by symptoms such as fever, increased or labored respiratory rate, and decreased energy and appetite. Dogs showing these signs should be taken to a veterinarian immediately. Remember, the key to managing CIRDC is early detection and supportive care.
P.S. Fortunately most dogs are completely fine after getting this, with you just having to symptomatically support them… .Honey, Green Tea, Slippery Elm and Elderberry for instance.
P.P.S. Our bestselling Omega 3 supplement, Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Omega 3 Formula is our least expensive supplement which has been especially helpful for our dogs and cats with inflammatory disorders (ie ear, eye, skin, organ and joint inflammation)
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