We are accustomed to outbreaks of the flu when the weather starts to turn cold and every winter at risk people are encouraged to get a flu shot. Sneezing and sniffing are common sounds in schools, the workplace and anywhere there’s a concentration of people. Now dog owners are learning about a strain of canine flu they need to be aware of. Canine influenza is a specific kind of disease and is on the rise. It’s a highly contagious respiratory infection that’s easily spread between dogs.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified a strain of flu that’s been found in horses for 40 years. In 2004, greyhounds that shared a Florida racetrack with horses came down with a mysterious respiratory illness. Scientists investigated and found the cause of the dogs’ sickness was from the equine flu A H3N8 virus. Since 2004, canine flu H3N8 has been reported in 38 states. Because it’s a new disease in canines, there hasn’t been enough time for dogs to develop an immunity to it and many pet owners are just now starting to become aware of it. Thousands of dogs have been infected with the virus with some areas of the country reporting widespread outbreaks. It’s more localized in Colorado, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, but it’s important to remember canine flu can quickly spread between dogs.
Symptoms of the canine flu virus are similar to human flu. A runny nose, sneezing, loss of appetite, coughing, lethargy and fever. Most dogs will have symptoms for a week or two and dogs that have been infected don’t usually show signs of being sick for the first several days, which makes passing the virus on to other dogs more likely. If you notice any symptoms, isolate your pet and keep him away from other dogs.
Canine flu, unlike human flu, is not just a seasonal disease. Dogs can be infected year round. If your pet comes down with the flu, make sure to follow proper sanitary practices by washing your hands, disinfect grooming tools and surfaces. Soap and bleach are effective in killing the virus. The H3N8 virus can be transmitted from one dog to another by us if we are around a sick dog. We can carry it on our hands and clothes and infect other dogs just by petting or holding them. It’s also spread by dogs sharing food or water bowls, toys, and bedding.
A dog that has come in contact with the virus will become infected, however only around 80 percent will develop flu like symptoms and 20 percent won’t even get sick. The good news is most dogs recover on their own within a couple of weeks. Fatalities are rare, but a small percentage of dogs can develop complications from secondary bacterial infections that can lead to pneumonia. Dog that are more susceptible to complications associated with canine flu are flat faced breeds like the Boston terrier, bulldogs, Pekingese or pugs. Very old or young dogs and canines with depressed immune systems have a greater risk of developing complications. Pets that go to dog parks, animal shelters, doggie day care, attend dog sporting events, dog shows, training classes, or spend time around other canines are at risk of catching the flu.
To determine if a dog has the flu, a blood test is taken when the dog is sick and followed by another test two to three weeks later for confirmation. Treatment for mild cases can include medication to keep him comfortable and fluids to keep your dog from becoming dehydrated. Antibiotics may be needed if complications develop.
There is a flu shot available for dogs, but like any vaccine, you should carefully consider if your dog needs to be vaccinated. The vaccination for the H3N8 virus doesn’t prevent your pet from getting sick, it only reduces the duration and severity of the flu. If your dog is healthy with no underlying medical conditions that could be of concern, you should consult with your vet and ask if it’s necessary to give your dog the vaccination. Some vets are concerned with giving too many vaccinations to pets and how often to vaccinate has them divided on what’s best. There are natural ways to help boost your pet’s immune system, but the wise course of action is to always discuss your dog’s health with a qualified vet.
Because this is a new strain of flu in dogs, scientists are still trying to decide if with vaccinations and time, the virus will die out on its own or if there’s a possibility it could mutate into something more serious. Time will tell, but for now, if your dog comes down with flu like symptoms, keep an eye on him and seek medical attention if his condition worsens. Give him lots of tender loving care and let him snuggle next to you on the couch. Humans and cats can not catch the flu from our canine friends.
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