Many dog owners are not aware that dogs have their own strain of flu called canine influenza caused by the H3N8 virus. While humans are considering whether they need to get a flu shot, their dogs may need their own flu vaccination.
What is Dog Flu?
Canine influenza in dogs is similar to flu in humans. It is a respiratory infection that originated in horses as the equine influenza virus but was discovered to have moved into dogs in 2004 when a number of greyhounds were found to have contracted the H3N8 virus. It has since mutated into a dog specific strain and is contagious between dogs.
Symptoms of Dog Flu
Symptoms in dogs are similar to flu symptoms experienced by humans. According to Cynda Crawford, an assistant professor of shelter medicine at the University of Florida, most dogs will show symptoms within four days of exposure. These include:
- fever
- runny nose
- cough
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
Any dog with these symptoms should see a veterinarian. Specific tests must be performed for an accurate diagnosis as other illnesses such as kennel cough have similar symptoms.
Is My Dog at Risk for Dog Flu?
Canine flu is spread by respiratory secretions, just as human flu. Dogs may contract the canine flu virus in dog parks, dog shows, boarding kennels or anywhere that they are exposed to other dogs. Dogs can also catch the virus through contaminated objects such as water bowls or humans handling sick dogs and not washing their hands.
Most dogs exposed to the virus do develop the illness; however, it is not serious in the majority of patients.
Edward Dubovi, PhD, director of the virology laboratory at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine says, “…most dogs, with the proper veterinary care, aren't impacted severely."
Most infected dogs have mild cases and recover within one to three weeks; however, an estimated 1% to 5% develop complications and die. Dogs with underlying health issues, older dogs, puppies, and brachycephalic breeds who already have compromised respiratory function are at greater risk of developing pneumonia or other complications.
A vaccine is available.
Can Humans Catch Dog Flu?
No cases of dogs passing the canine influenza virus to humans have been reported.
Rubin Donis, PhD, chief of the molecular virology and vaccines branch at the Centers for Disease Control, says, “…so far we haven't seen any evidence that people can contract the virus from their pets,"
At the same time, the CDC is monitoring the H3N8 virus because experts know that influenza viruses are constantly mutating and the possibility of the virus infecting humans can not be ruled out.
Treatment of Canine Influenza
Treatment usually involves supportive therapy while the dog’s own immune system attacks the virus. Pain medication and antibiotics to fight secondary infections may be prescribed. The veterinarian may also administer fluids. Just as in human flu cases, keeping the patient hydrated is important.
Should My Dog Get the Flu Shot Vaccine?
A dog flu vaccine was approved early in 2009 and is given in two injections three weeks apart. The vaccine does not prevent dogs from contracting dog flu but it does lessen the severity and hasten recovery time.
The American Veterinary Medical Association does not recommend vaccinating all dogs. Owners of dogs at greater risk of canine influenza through regular contact with other dogs, dogs with compromised health, or dogs traveling to an area of outbreak are advised to discuss the vaccine with their veterinarian.
Readers may also be interested in whether dogs can get swine flu or pass swine flu to humans.
Joy Butler - Writer, retired lab tech, mom, and animal lover with over 20 years' experience rescuing, kenneling, training and showing dogs.
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