Canine Influenza Identified at Animal Shelter

Since Canine Influenza was discovered in Palm Beach County in 2006, Animal Care and Control has been monitoring for signs of the disease.  Staff has identified a positive case of Canine Influenza in a stray hound, mixed-breed, adult dog at the shelter.  

Dogs in the main adoption kennel at Animal Care and Control were exposed to the Canine Influenza and are in quarantine for 10 days.  However, a secondary kennel has been established in an effort to continue adoptions of other dogs, unless further cases arise.  As a precaution, rabies vaccinations and microchipping offered at the shelter to pet owners of dogs and puppies are suspended until further notice.  

Canine Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection in the canine community.  It cannot be contracted by humans.  All dogs and puppies exposed to the disease will become infected.  Clinical signs of the disease, in mild cases, are severe moist cough, low grade fever and green nasal discharge.  The symptoms are similar to and sometimes mistaken for kennel cough.  The cough may be persistent for up to 30 days and is not responsive to antibiotic treatment.  More severe cases result in pneumonia and possible death.

It is highly recommended that pet owners continue to be cautious with their dogs when going in public places and consult with their veterinarian.