What is the Dog Flu?

With all the talk about the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus I have had several dog owners ask if their dog could catch either of these contagious respiratory infections. From what I understand the answer is no, but our canine friends have their own flu to be concerned about.

Dog flu, or canine influenza, is a contagious respiratory virus in dogs that is spread by an influenza virus from dog to dog. It is not contagious to humans. This is according to the Centers for Disease Control. It is an influenza A H3N8 influenza virus. It is not related to swine flue or the H1N1 virus.

This particular virus was originally found in horses and has now been found in dogs. It’s been seen in horses for more than 40 years. The first case was detected in dogs in 2004 in a Greyhound in Florida. In September 2005 the virus was identified by experts as “a newly emerging pathogen in the dog population” in the United States.

Symptoms include cough, runny nose and fever. However, very few dogs actually develop a severe form of the disease. The number of dogs that die from dog flu or canine influenza is very small. Most dogs are asymptomatic — they have no symptoms at all. They may come in contact with the virus and develop an immunity to it. Other dogs may develop a mild infection. Severe illness may lead to pneumonia. About 80 percent of dogs who come in contact with the virus will have a mild infection.

Dog flu is spread by direct contact with respiratory secretions from infected dogs or by contact with objects that have been contaminated by other dogs. Dog flu can also be spread by humans who move between infected dogs and uninfected dogs. Dogs that are coughing and showing other signs of respiratory illness should not be taken to places where other dogs congregate such as dog shows. Dogs going to animal shelters should be quarantined. If you are around dogs with respiratory illness then your clothing and equipment should be cleaned and disinfected after exposure. Be sure to wash your hands and disinfect your shoes before coming in contact with other dogs.

There is testing to confirm dog flu infection available from your veterinarian. Tests can use either respiratory secretions or blood samples.

Treatment for canine influenza consists mostly of supportive care which helps the dog create an immune response to fight off the virus. Medication and fluids can make the dog more comfortable and keep him well-hydrated. Broad spectrum antibiotics may be called for to discourage secondary bacterial infections.

There is a vaccine available to prevent canine influenza but there is some debate about how effective it is. If your dog is frequently around large numbers of other dogs then it is probably worthwhile to have your dog vaccinated for dog flu.

So far there is no evidence that canine influenza can be spread to humans.

Until next time…..