As fall approaches, the change of season becomes apparent. This is a beautiful time of year, but it is also the time of canine influenza (commonly known as dog flu), just as it is the flu season for their owners.
Canine influenza is a contagious respiratory disease occurring in dogs caused by a specific virus (H3N8). This virus became famous in 2004 when the virus caused the death of greyhound dogs at a racetrack in New Jersey. It was suspected that the virus jumped from racehorses to racing dogs and mutated. Another strain (H3N2) virus originated in birds and was first detected in dogs in Asia before it spread to the United States in 2015. H3N2 is also contagious and can spread rapidly among dogs.
While dog flu can be serious, especially for puppies, elderly dogs, and those with pre-existing conditions, most dogs recover fully with proper care. If not properly treated, this virus can develop into pneumonia. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and preventative measures can help protect your dog from contracting dog flu.
Where is Dog Flu Commonly Found?
Today, dog flu has been classified as epidemic in several areas of the country due to its recurring nature. California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington report high numbers of cases each year.
Dog flu is most likely to spread in boarding kennels, animal shelters, dog daycare centers, dog parks, and dog shows or competitions where dogs are in close contact with each other. Dogs can contract the flu by direct contact with other infected dogs, by inhaling droplets from other dogs who are coughing or sneezing, from contaminated surfaces or from humans who spread the infection through touch.
Although canine influenza is highly contagious among dogs, there is no evidence that supports transmission to cats, horses, other animals, or human beings. Humans, however, can be carriers of the virus and infect another dog if they have been exposed.
What are the Symptoms of Dog Flu?
Symptoms of dog flu can range from mild to severe and typically appear two to four days after exposure. Common symptoms include:
- Loss of Appetite: Dogs may lose interest in eating.
- Lethargy: Infected dogs may become less active or tired.
- Fever: Mild to high fever, especially in more severe cases. Fevers can exceed 104°F (40°C).
- Runny Nose: Nasal discharge, often clear, but it can turn thick and yellowish if a secondary bacterial infection occurs.
- Coughing: Persistent, hacking cough similar to kennel cough lasting from 10 to 30 days.
- Sneezing: Frequent sneezing is common in affected dogs.
- Runny eyes: Wet and weepy eyes are a common symptom of dog flu
- Difficulty Breathing: Severe cases can lead to labored breathing or rapid breathing.
Some dogs may remain asymptomatic but can still spread the virus to other dogs.
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 who are exposed will have a mild form of this disease.
How Can I Get my Dog Tested for Dog Flu?
Veterinary Diagnostic Centers can perform tests on nasal secretions at the onset of infection. Detection from a series of blood tests can also confirm the presence of infection.
If you suspect your dog has the flu, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for proper diagnosis. The vet may perform one or more of the following:
- Physical Examination: The vet will assess your dog’s overall condition and symptoms.
- Blood Tests: A complete blood count (CBC) can indicate infection.
- Nasal Swab: A sample may be taken from the nose or throat to test for the virus.
Since symptoms of dog flu can resemble other respiratory illnesses, a confirmed diagnosis may require lab testing.
How do I Protect my Dog from Dog Flu?
The first thing to do is to monitor your dog’s behavior and appearance. Watch for nasal secretions and coughing. Your dog may also become lethargic or unwilling to eat. Take your dog to your veterinarian if these conditions continue.
Ask your veterinarian about a canine influenza vaccine that was recently approved in the United States. The first vaccine against canine influenza virus (CIV), Nobivac© Canine Flu H3N8, has been granted a full license by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), according to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service through its Center for Veterinary Biologics.
Check on any bulletins from local shelters, animal rescue groups, county/municipal animal control officials or the local news. These are the people who will let you know if there is an outbreak in your community. Should an outbreak of dog flu occur, keep your pet away from other dogs and dog parks until the number of reported cases falls. This is especially important for those people who live in the areas where there is the highest concentration of cases.
If you are traveling with your dog, and exposure to other animals will increase, confirm that dog flu has not been prevalent where you are visiting. Note the appearance of other dogs before letting them go nose to nose with your dog. Ask their owners if the dog is well and social before easing up on your leash. Even these commonsense precautions may not prevent your pet from catching dog flu, but your attention to your pet will certainly insure that will get the care that they need should they become infected.
What is the Treatment Should my Dog Get Dog Flu?
You will want to have your veterinarian confirm that your pet is infected. The best treatment is to be supportive of your pet’s condition. Make sure your dog has plenty of water to drink, and don’t over exercise them during this time. Your vet may prescribe antibiotics if they suspect a secondary infection. Isolate your dog from other dogs to prevent further contagion.
Wash your hands and change clothes if you’ve been in contact with other dogs, especially if you suspect they may be sick. Disinfect bowls, leashes, and any shared surfaces regularly.
Always consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has been exposed to dog flu and consider the vaccine that is available. Watch for symptoms and practice good hygiene. Avoid places where dogs gather if you suspect an outbreak.
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