Dog Flu

If you have a dog, by now you have heard of the dog flu. An erroneous amount of information is circling the globe concerning the dog flu. Some of the information is fact; some fiction. Here are some common questions and the answers to those questions.

The dog flu is a highly contagious respiratory virus. It is a type A influenza virus called H3N8. Symptoms are similar to kennel cough, a common respiratory infection seen in dogs, and include a low grade fever, discharge from the nose and a dry, non-mucous producing cough. The average normal temperature for a dog is 101.5 degrees. Your dog may contract the flu virus but show no signs. There is currently no test to determine if a dog is infected with dog flu. This canine illness is believed to have originated in horses and crossed-over species to dogs. It is very rare for viruses to cross species in this manner.

The dog flu is airborne transmitted and passed by coughing and contact with contaminated objects. Nearly 100% of dogs exposed to the flu will contract it, and 80% of these will be mild cases. Because it is contagious, if you suspect your dog may have the dog flu, contact your vet immediately.

Contracting the dog flu does not automatically mean your dog will die. Just like the human version, the mortality rate is low, from five to eight percent. Death usually occurs as a result of pneumonia triggered by the flu. Early treatment is important.

Yes. If you board your dog for any reason, use a boarding kennel you know. Make sure that boarding kennel employees are aware of the dog flu and are able to recognize its signs and symptoms. Also check to see that the kennel owners require all dog to have current shots. Watch the news and read newspapers for information about flu breakouts in your area. If you hear about a local breakout, avoid dog parks, pet stores and other places where there are large gatherings of dogs. If your dog exhibits any symptoms, keep it inside and away from other dogs to avoid infecting them. When taking your dog to the vet, alert the veterinarian assistants you suspect the dog is contagious, so they can isolate your dog from others.

No. No cases of human contraction of the dog flu have been reported.

Not yet. There is no vaccine, but researchers are working on a solution. The vaccine for kennel cough is not effective against the flu.

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