SIX Canine Flu babies

UPDATE:

Last week a local shelter put out an urgent plea to try to save the lives of some of the dogs that they had that were sick with the flu and/or exposed to it. Each day since coming to us they've shown a new symptom. Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, runny eyes, heavy breathing, diarrhea, lack of appetite, not drinking, lethargic. We've been all over the board. They were started on medication as soon as they came to us so the symptoms haven't been as severe as they could have been though. Our wonderful vet partner has been closely monitoring everything and ensuring everything is under control, as always. Not sure what we'd do without her!

Throughout the weekend into early this week has been the hardest, appetites have had to be supplemented with a medication called entyce as none of the 6 wanted to eat, no matter what was offered. Fluids and supplements have been given as needed to ensure they're getting what their bodies need to keep fighting. 

As of today, 4 of them are eating somewhat well most of the time.  We had our suspicions that one of the babies was pregnant. 

On Monday, our suspicion was confirmed, she (Nyla) started lactating. Baby watch had begun. Caring for 6 very sick dogs is a lot of work. 

Ensuring proper quarantine is extremely tedious but so very important. We're using a ton of disposable gowns, gloves, booties, face shields, microban, kennelsol, puppy pads, bleach, etc. Medication isn't cheap but is vital in giving these babies the best chance of survival. 

We are only able to help with these urgent cases with the generosity of our amazing village! Please, every dollar adds up and helps.

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When one of the area shelters sent out an urgent plea for help, we knew they had very few options. Canine influenza is highly contagious and making its way through the shelter FAST. 

Five of these kids had already been exposed, a couple had started to cough a little. The large dog, top center picture, has had full blown symptoms. They needed help and they needed it NOW!

As of today, 24 hours after getting to us, they are all showing symptoms. Everyone is coughing. Four of the six aren't eating. One of the two that are eating isn't eating very well. Only one of the six is drinking like we'd like to see. 

Medications have been started, fluids are on hand, appetite stimulant starts in the morning (picking it up from our vet partner). We are in constant close contact with our vet partner to stay on top of each of their needs. If at any point, they need to be hospitalized they will be without hesitation. 

To make matters worse, we believe that one of the girls (top right picture), may be pregnant. She's being monitored extra closely.

Canine flu quarantine is 3 weeks, 21 days. The symptoms can last 2-3 weeks, it can also turn into pneumonia. That means we are possibly looking at a lot of canned food, medications, puppy pads, disinfectant and laundry detergent - oh my! Any help, every dollar, is greatly appreciated and adds up to help us help them!