I have written our recommendations for protecting your pet against the Canine Influenza Virus (CIV). It is listed as bullet number 6, under Important Announcements, located on our Hospital Information page. Please read, as it has important information regarding the healthy well being of your pet.

I have posted additional information on the Canine Influenza Virus. Please go to our web page, entitled "Hospital Information" and click on the first bullet, "Important Announcements" to download the articles. I will be providing my recommendations for vaccination shortly. We are reviewing information provided by the vaccine manufacturer as well as test results from suspected infected animals to determine which dogs we recommend receiving the vaccine.

The following information is to inform you of a viral influenza that has been diagnosed in over 30 states, including Virginia. The virus, known as the Canine Influenza Virus (CIV), was originally an equine virus; however, it has mutated and is now affecting our canine companions. This virus has no known risk to humans. We are sending this email simply to inform the community of the virus and ask for your help in preventing the spread of the virus within our local community, as well as Loudoun County.

This virus has the same symptoms as Kennel Cough. These symptoms include coughing, runny nose, fever, and lethargy. Because this is a new virus to the canine species, 100% of our canine family friends can be affected. Eighty percent of the dogs infected will show mild to moderate symptoms, while 20% of the infected will carry the virus, but not show ANY symptoms. Any dog diagnosed with the virus is HIGHLY contagious and should be kept away from any other dogs.

The virus is transmitted via direct contact with respiratory secretions. This includes coughing, sneezing, and contact with food/water bowls, toys, or bedding. We are also able to carry the virus on our clothing, hair, skin, and shoes. The virus lives in the environment for up to 12 hours.

Aldie Veterinary Hospital is taking all precautions to help prevent the spread of the virus. If your animal is exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above, and you have an appointment with us, we ask that you help us by staying in your car with the air conditioning running until we are ready to see you and your pet.

There is a vaccine available for prevention of the serious complications associated with this virus. At this time, we we are reviewing information provided by the vaccine manufacturer as well as test results from suspected infected animals to determine which dogs we recommend receiving the vaccine.

We are going to try something new and totally technical for us in medicine, we are going to blog! Why Aldie Vet blog? There are many beneficial reasons for us to blog, but the most important, in my opinion, is to keep connected with the community we serve. What better way to do that, besides email and old fashion phone calls, then to blog. Be careful, if this works out, I may include Twittering.