Dog flu can take a cruel toll on your pup.
The canine influenza virus is a contagious respiratory infection caused by specific strains of the influenza virus that affect dogs. It was first identified in Florida in 2004 and is highly infectious and most commonly transmitted between dogs via nose-to-nose contact or coughing and sneezing.
Dogs can also contract dog flu by contacting contaminated objects, such as food and water bowls, bedding, toys, collars, and leashes.
Dog flu cases
While the exact number of cases of respiratory disease at any given time is difficult to determine, the virus is highly contagious, especially among dogs that frequently interact with one another in places like boarding facilities, dog parks, and doggy daycare centers.
Cases typically rise during certain seasons or following an outbreak in an area.
The largest outbreak of canine influenza occurred in Los Angeles County between July 2021 and January 2022, with 1,344 reported cases. 85% of cases had known exposure associated with dog daycare, boarding kennels, or shelters.
In 2015, a dog flu outbreak in Chicago sickened 1,000 dogs. Another outbreak in 2017 sickened dogs in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.
Although the virus is harmful to dogs, humans cannot be infected.
The good news is that dog flu is rarely fatal — less than 10 percent of flu-infected dogs die.
Some severe cases may require hospitalization, but most dogs are ill for 15-30 days and require supportive treatment of rest, fluids, and veterinarian-prescribed cough medicine.
Some also need antiviral medications prescribed by a veterinarian.
Dog flu symptoms
If your dog shows any symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately: persistent cough, nasal discharge, fever, red eyes, eye discharge, lethargy, and reduced appetite or weight loss.
Dogs with a mild case of dog flu will experience nasal discharge and a moist cough. It’s more serious than kennel cough, a bacterial infection that causes a barking cough.
Dogs who suffer from a severe case of canine influenza will have a high fever—usually over 104 degrees—and can develop hemorrhagic pneumonia, which causes the dog to cough up blood and have trouble breathing.
Treatment
Most treatment methods involve a series of medications that help dogs fight the flu virus.
It’s also vital to ensure the dog has proper living conditions. Sleeping with a sick dog is not a good idea.
Many veterinarians treat dog flu with antiviral medications. Dog owners must strictly follow the vet’s instructions for these medications to work.
It’s also essential to provide supportive care for the dog to prevent secondary infections. Your vet can offer the best advice on how to soothe your dog to ensure he gets the rest he needs to recover.
Other treatment methods include:
- Good nutrition — Healthy dog food and supplements that boost immunity.
- Rest — Ensure your dog stays calm and has a soft, comfortable place for resting.
- Medications — To treat bacterial infections, Follow your vet’s instructions. Give your dog the proper dose at the right time, stick to the schedule, and use all the medicine.
- Hydration — Fluid therapy is the fastest method of treatment to relieve pain and suffering in cases of dog flu. Vets commonly recommend home fluid therapy for dogs suffering from the flu.
Prevention
The virus that causes the dog flu lives on surfaces for 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on your hands for up to 12 hours. So, good hygiene is key to keeping your dog healthy.
A vaccine is available for both the H3N2 and the older H3N8 strains of dog flu. There are two main types of canine influenza vaccines: monovalent and bivalent.
The monovalent vaccine protects against a single strain of the flu virus, while the bivalent vaccine offers coverage against both the H3N8 and H3N2 strains.
Dog owners should consider vaccination to help safeguard their pets from this contagious illness.
Talk to your vet about whether your dog needs the vaccine. If your dog spends time around other dogs, the vaccine might be your best option to prevent dog flu.
You’ve also likely heard about cases of bird flu and may wonder how you can protect your dog. To do so, keep them leashed away from wild birds, poultry, and areas where bird flu has been confirmed.
Avoid feeding your dog raw meat, poultry, or unpasteurized milk, as cooking destroys the virus.
Prevent your dog from consuming dead animals and avoid shared water and food bowls that could be contaminated.
After interacting with unfamiliar animals, wash your hands and change your clothing. If your dog will be around other dogs, consider a Bordetella vaccination.
Schedule routine vet visits
Regular veterinary check-ups play a crucial role in the early detection of dog flu, as veterinarians are trained to recognize the subtle signs and symptoms that may go unnoticed by pet owners.
During these routine visits, veterinarians can monitor your dog’s overall health, assess any changes in behavior or physical condition, and identify early indicators of illness, including respiratory issues or lethargy.
Additionally, a thorough examination allows for timely vaccinations and preventive care, which can bolster your dog’s immune system against the canine influenza virus.
Fostering an ongoing relationship with your veterinarian ensures that potential health concerns, including dog flu, are caught early. This leads to more effective treatment and a better chance of recovery for your furry friend.
Regular check-ups promote your dog’s well-being and provide peace of mind for you as a responsible pet owner.
Quarantine sick dogs
Quarantining an infected dog to prevent the spread of dog flu is crucial.
First, isolating the infected dog in a separate area of the house away from other pets is essential.
Designate a comfortable room with food, water, and a resting place.
Limit direct contact with the infected dog as much as possible; if you need to handle them, wear gloves and a mask to minimize the risk of transmission.
Hygiene is vital, so wash your hands thoroughly before and after any interaction with the dog, and regularly disinfect surfaces they may come into contact with, including food bowls, bedding, and toys.
Monitor your dog’s symptoms closely, noting any changes, and consult your veterinarian if their condition worsens.
During quarantine, avoid taking the infected dog to parks or places where they could come into contact with other dogs.
Follow any specific instructions your veterinarian provides, including information on necessary care, medications, and the appropriate duration of quarantine.
Typically, a dog should remain in quarantine for at least two weeks after symptoms have resolved, but always confirm the exact timeframe with your vet.
Lastly, have a plan if your dog’s condition deteriorates, ensuring you have the contact information for your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic readily available.
Final thoughts on dog flu
Understanding dog flu is vital for every dog owner, as it can significantly affect your pet’s health and well-being.
By recognizing the symptoms early and consulting with a veterinarian, you can ensure that your dog receives the appropriate care.
Implementing preventive measures, such as maintaining good hygiene and considering vaccination, can reduce the risk of infection, especially for dogs that frequently interact with others.
Most dogs recover fully from this illness with proper treatment and supportive care.
Staying informed and proactive is essential in keeping your furry companion healthy and happy.
Deborah Hurst is a veterinarian in New Orleans. She co-founded ToyPetReviews.com, which shares information about the best pet toys.
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