At the Pet Care Clinic of Doral, Florida, we take your pet’s health very seriously. For the protection of you and your family, our Veterinarian should see your pet at least twice a year.

Coughing canine? Drowsy doggie? As cases of canine influenza (dog flu) have been confirmed in an increasing number of U.S. states, many dog caretakers have been left to wonder if their dog has a basic cold or if it could be the dog flu.

What is the dog flu?

The dog flu is a highly contagious viral infection that is spread through respiratory secretions when an infected dog barks, coughs or sneezes. The virus can live on objects, like toys, food bowls, leashes, and clothing, for up to 48 hours. Despite its name, the dog flu can also affect cats, although that is less common.

Dogs that have contact with other dogs, especially at places where groups of dogs congregate, like boarding facilities, doggie daycares, and dog parks, are at highest risk of contracting the flu.

Twenty percent of dogs exposed to the virus will not show signs of illness, but they could still be carriers of the virus and spread it to other dogs.

Signs of the Dog Flu

Mild cases of dog flu will result in:

  • A cough that can last up to a month
  • Sneezing
  • Lethargy
  • Increased eye and nasal discharge

Dogs that develop a more serious form of the infection might experience a high fever. The virus can also progress to pneumonia, which could lead to difficulty breathing and the need for supplemental oxygen and other medical support. A small percentage of dogs who get the flu will succumb to the virus.

Which dogs are at risk of catching the dog flu?

Most dogs do not have immunity to the dog flu. This means that dogs of any breed, age or health status will likely be infected if they are exposed to the virus. Dogs at most risk for exposure are those with a social lifestyle and participate in group events or are housed in communal facilities, especially in communities where the dog flu is circulating. This includes dogs in boarding kennels, day care centers, shelters, dog shows, veterinary clinics, pet stores, grooming parlors, etc. Dogs that mostly stay at home and walk around the neighborhood are at low risk.

Diagnosis and Treatment of the Dog Flu

If your dog is showing signs of canine influenza, call us immediately. To avoid spreading the flu, do not bring your dog into our office without notifying us first. To confirm the flu, we may conduct a nasal swab test.

If your dog has the flu, we will offer supportive care when appropriate, like anti-nausea medications, fluids, and antibiotics to treat possible secondary bacterial infections. There is no cure for canine influenza, so we will recommend that you keep your pup hydrated, help him get plenty of rest, and keep him away from other dogs for about four weeks after recovery to prevent spreading the virus.  

Preventing Dog Flu

There are vaccines to protect dogs against both strains of dog flu currently affecting pets in the U.S. and Canada—H3N8 and H3N2. A booster is required after the vaccine is administered, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

You should also remain aware of any information about confirmed documentation of H3N2 CIV in your community or communities where you take your dog. If this virus is present in the community, then be careful about exposing your dog to events or facilities with other dogs. Knowledge and common sense are your best defenses against canine influenza.

The most important step is to vaccinate your dog against the canine influenza viruses. Just like human flu vaccines, the H3N2 CIV vaccine may not completely prevent infection but will make it less likely. Additionally, if a vaccinated dog does get infected, the disease is likely to be milder and of shorter duration. The vaccine can also protect against pneumonia. Talk to your veterinarian about vaccination against H3N2 CIV and other canine influenza viruses.

Questions about protecting your pup against canine influenza? Call our office.

Have questions? Need an appointment?

The Pet Care Clinic of Doral is here to help! Contact us today.

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