« Dog Flu - What is it and how do you protect your dog?
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- Pet travelers know the importance of their pet’s health whether it be before, during, or after travel. Now that flu season is in full swing, and people are being vaccinated, it is important to watch for signs of dog flu in your pet.
Canine influenza (otherwise known as dog flu) is a contagious respiratory disease occurring in dogs caused by a specific virus (H3N8). This disease became famous in 2004 when the virus caused the death of greyhound dogs at a race track in New Jersey. It was suspected that the virus jumped from race horses to racing dogs and mutated.
Today, dog flu has been classified as epidemic in several areas of the country due to its recurring nature. Southern New Jersey, New York, and northern Colorado/southern Wyoming reports high numbers of cases each year, although the virus can be found in over 22 states in the United States.
Symptoms can include a persistent cough lasting from 10 to 30 days, fever, and possibly a nasal discharge. If not properly treated, this virus can develop into pneumonia. It is most common in shelters where large amounts of dogs move in and out and exposure is high. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, about 80% of dogs will have a mild form of this disease.
More information on dog flu can be found in our pet travel articles section.
One commentto “Dog Flu - What is it and how do you protect your dog?”
Update: if you live in the DC area, The Rocky Gorge Animal Hospital, Resort and Spa in Laurel has been holding flu clinics on Saturdays, so dogs can be vaccinated against the seasonal flu.
RESPONSE
That’s good news - thanks for letting us know Sue.