- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
The sound of “dog flu” can sound scary, and as a concerned pet parent it’s important to know the facts.
Fortunately, there are many steps that dog parents can take to keep their pets protected and comfortable when dog flu, or canine influenza, rolls around. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Canine Influenza?
Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus in dogs, Dr. Aziza Glass, DVM and consulting veterinarian for Freshpet, explained to Rover. In the US, the two virus strains responsible for most cases are H3N2 and H3N8. The symptoms of dog flu, as well as the recommended course of treatment, is similar to flu in humans. Most dogs recover in a few weeks.
iStock/Monica Click
How Is Dog Flu Transmitted?
Like human influenza, dog flu is contagious and easy to spread from one dog to another, said Dr. Glass.
What’s worse, she explained, is that humans are often doing the spreading. While “there is no evidence that dog flu can pass to humans, humans can be a source of infection to dogs.” So, while the canine flu virus strains do not cause human infections, humans help pass the virus to their pets through surfaces, such as leashes or food bowls, that are infected from other animals. “There is a higher risk of exposure based on lifestyle choices, such as being around more dogs, attending doggy day care, visiting dog parks or going to the groomer,” Dr. Glass said.
The most common ways canine flu can spread include:
- By direct contact with infected dogs—such as petting—and by the aerosol spread of respiratory secretions generated by coughing and sneezing.
- Via contaminated objects like crates, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and the skin and clothing of people handling infected dogs.
Getting vaccinated will help, said Dr. Glass. “I tell people to make sure they are proactive with their vaccinations and that they are up to date. Vaccinations do not prevent infection, but they do decrease the severity of symptoms.”
Who Is at Risk for Dog Flu?
Dog flu is present year round, Dr. Glass noted, so your dog can catch it anytime of year. Your dog will be at greater risk if they regularly interact with other dogs as part of their lifestyle.
- Dogs of any age and breed are susceptible to this infection, but puppies, senior or pregnant dogs, or immunocompromised pets are especially vulnerable.
- Cats can also carry and transmit most strains of canine flu.
- Canine influenza virus strains do not cause human infections.
Dog Flu Symptoms
Dr. Glass said the symptoms of dog flu look a lot like they do in humans, including:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Eye or nasal discharge
- Labored or difficult breathing
- Lethargy/lack of energy
- GI issues such as vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Increased thirst
iStock/NickyLloyd
What Do I Do if I Think My Dog Has Canine Influenza?
“If the pet owner believes the pet has the flu, it is recommended go to the vet,” Dr. Glass said. “Ideally, the pet would be taken by someone who is not sick themselves. If there a strong medical history established with the vet, they should consider doing telemedicine, depending on the severity of the symptoms.”
If you suspect your dog has canine flu, or your vet confirms it, you should isolate your dog and keep them separate from other animals, including cats, for three weeks. That means training courses, the dog park, your dog-friendly office, and anywhere your dog might regularly encounter other pets.
Meanwhile, practice good sanitation, such as:
- Washing your hands thoroughly after touching your sick animal and before touching any other pets in your household.
- Washing food and water dishes at least daily in hot water with plenty of soap.
- Clean bedding, towels, and even your clothes if exposed to the virus (ie: coughed on, slobbered on) with a through antiviral cleaner like bleach or Pinesol.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) notes that secondary bacterial infections can also follow a flu episode, such as pneumonia. Any pet dogs that don’t recover within two weeks from initial flu symptoms should certainly be seen by a vet.
Make sure your dog stays comfortable while they fight off the virus. A humidifier can help with coughing. Even “a sit in the bathroom with a steam shower” can help, Dr. Aziza advised. As with people, your dog should have a comfortable and quiet place to rest, and be offered plenty of water and moisture-rich foods to stay hydrated.
Is There a Dog Flu Shot?
There is a vaccine for both strains of dog flu available. Some facilities such as doggy daycares, dog hotels, and other boarding facilities may require the vaccination. Many vets also recommend it for dogs who frequently spend time in an enclosed environment with a significant amount of other dogs, such as a kennel, or for dogs that have health conditions that can make a dog flu episode more dangerous.
Talk to your vet if you have questions about the canine flu vaccine—they are the best source of information when it comes to considering whether your dog is a good candidate.
How Can I Prevent the Canine Influenza Virus from Spreading?
As with humans, the following common-sense precautions and general good hygiene are effective measures to protect your dog from the canine flu.
- Wash your hands, clothes, and dog belongings with soap and water.
- Note that the virus can stay on your hands, clothes and other surfaces for up to 48 hours, so it’s important to wash your hands before and after petting animals.
- Pay attention to alerts in your area. If there is an outbreak of dog flu, be sure to take measures to protect your dog, such as avoiding training classes, grooming sessions, or the dog park until the outbreak is over.
- Be aware of other dogs. If a dog appears to be coughing or visibly ill, keep your dog away.
iStock/Almaje
The Good News
With the correct diagnosis, the vast majority of dogs will recover from canine influenza within two weeks without any further health complications. Keep an eye out for symptoms, take basic precautions, and call your vet with any questions. You’ll rest assured you’re taking great care of your best friend.
