Dog Flu Symptoms 6 ways to prevent and treat it
- The Symptoms Of CIV. The most common signs of CIV are the same symptoms as kennel cough: a very distinctive cough that sounds similar to a goose honking, loss of ...
- Preventing Dog Flu. It’s always a good idea to make sure your dog is current on their Bordetella vaccination. ...
- Treating the Dog Flu. ...
What are the symptoms of the flu in a dog?
Watch your dog closely for:
- High fever (greater than 104°F)
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of energy (lethargy) and signs of depression
- Severe appetite loss
Can dogs get a cold or flu?
Dogs, like humans, can get colds and flus that cause them to sneeze and sniffle. Although your dog may have a cold, it could also be a sign of a more serious illness, like pneumonia. Seasonal colds and flu are taking over schools and workplaces this time of year. Everyone seems to be carrying tissues and taking a few days off from work or school.
Do dogs need a flu shot?
The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that dogs that are in frequent contact with other dogs be vaccinated against canine influenza to help prevent the spread.
What are the signs of influenza?
The signs and symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Conjunctivitis (eye infections)
- Muscle aches
How do you treat a dog with influenza?
There is no cure for dog flu. Treatment is supportive, and your veterinarian can advise you on the best ways to keep your dog comfortable during his illness and recovery. Some dogs may require supportive care, such as fluids, to aid their recovery, as well as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce fevers.
How long does dog influenza last?
Most dogs recover within 2-3 weeks. However, some dogs may develop secondary bacterial infections which may lead to more severe illness and pneumonia. Anyone with concerns about their pet's health, or whose pet is showing signs of canine influenza, should contact their veterinarian.
What is the difference between kennel cough and canine influenza?
Dog Flu, or canine influenza virus, is a viral disease and, because of that, it's more difficult to treat than canine cough, also known as kennel cough. Kennel cough is a bacterial infection easily treated with antibiotics. Dog Flu, on the other hand, is a virus that can't be "cured".
How long does dog flu take to show symptoms?
about 2 to 4 daysIt takes about 2 to 4 days (incubation period) for clinical signs to develop after contact with the virus. Infected dogs are most contagious during this incubation period before symptoms occur, making rapid transmission likely. Infected dogs continue to spread the virus for up to 20 days.
How does a dog get canine influenza?
Dogs in close contact with infected dogs in places such as kennels, groomers, day care facilities and shelters are at increased risk of infection. Canine influenza can be spread indirectly through objects (e.g., kennels, food and water bowls, collars and leashes) or people that have been in contact with infected dogs.
How do I know if my dog has a virus?
What to do if you think your pet has the virus that causes COVID-19Fever.Coughing.Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.Lethargy (unusual lack of energy or sluggishness)Sneezing.Runny nose.Eye discharge.Vomiting.More items...
Can dog flu go away on its own?
Symptoms and Types of Canine Influenza Mild – These dogs will have a cough that is typically moist and can have nasal discharge. Occasionally, it will be more of a dry cough. In most cases, the symptoms will last 10 to 30 days and usually will go away on their own. It's similar to kennel cough but persists longer.
What does dog flu cough sound like?
A wet, phlegmy cough that sounds moist could indicate dog flu or pneumonia. If it sounds like your dog is gargling or coughing up phlegm, this suggests an issue in the dog's lower airway (or lungs). If you hear this cough, it is best to seek medical attention for your dog right away.
How can you tell if your dog has pneumonia?
Dogs that have bacterial pneumonia usually have a high fever, difficulty breathing, decreased exercise tolerance (tire easily), are lethargic, and/or have a cough. Other signs that may be present include a nasal discharge, loud breathing, rapid breathing, weight loss, anorexia, and dehydration.
What is the dog flu that's going around?
There are two primary strains of Canine Influenza — H3N8 and H3N2. Both are highly contagious and are primarily spread through respiratory droplets. Therefore, veterinarians are recommending dog owners limit their pup's time with other dogs.
What dog virus is going around?
State agricultural officials have determined the illness is parvovirus, a highly contagious and often fatal disease that causes acute gastrointestinal illness and is usually found in unvaccinated puppies.
What does a dog with a cold sound like?
The most distinctive characteristic of kennel cough is the dry, honking cough that dogs develop. Some people equate it to the sound of a honking goose. Other symptoms of kennel cough include sneezing, a runny nose, lethargy, appetite loss, and a low fever.
What is the dog flu that's going around?
There are two primary strains of Canine Influenza — H3N8 and H3N2. Both are highly contagious and are primarily spread through respiratory droplets. Therefore, veterinarians are recommending dog owners limit their pup's time with other dogs.
Is parvo the same as canine influenza?
Canine influenza (canine flu) has been confirmed in 22 states of the USA. `This is the new parvo`, an expert says of the canine influenza outbreak. Cynda Crawford, an expert in canine influenza from the University of Florida, reports that this airborne virus is more widespread than once thought.
How long does the canine influenza vaccine take to work?
3-4 weeksPreventing Canine Influenza The vaccination requires a booster shot two weeks after the initial vaccine. Vaccines take 3-4 weeks to provide immunity.
What is the difference between canine influenza and parainfluenza?
Parainfluenza is a virus that has similar symptoms to influenza, but it is a distinct disease. It's related to canine distemper. Parainfluenza is a part of a respiratory complex that is highly transmissible. Dogs with a recent parainfluenza infection can also have additional problems like kennel cough.
What are the symptoms of dog flu?
Dog flu symptoms resemble kennel cough symptoms, which is also an illness you should talk to your veterinarian about as soon as you notice symptoms. Most cases of dog flu are mild, but severe cases do occur. In those instances, dogs develop pneumonia, difficulty breathing, and a high fever.
How do you know if your dog has the flu?
So, how do you know if your pup has dog flu? There are several symptoms all owners should be aware of. Dog flu cases range from mild to severe and, unlike human influenzas, are not seasonal. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms year-round: 1 Coughing (both moist and dry) 2 Sneezing 3 Nasal discharge 4 Purulent nasal discharge 5 Runny eyes 6 Fever 7 Lethargy 8 Difficulty breathing
What Is Dog Flu?
Dog flu, or canine influenza virus, is an infectious respiratory disease caused by an influenza A virus , similar to the viral strains that cause influenza in people. There are two known strains of dog flu found in the United States:
How Long Are Dogs Infected With Dog Flu Contagious?
Viral shedding starts to decrease after the fourth day, but dogs with H3N8 remain contagious for up to 10 days after exposure, and dogs with H3N2 remain contagious for up to 26 days. Most vets recommend isolating dogs with H3N2 for at least 21 days to reduce the risk of transmission.
How does the dog flu spread?
The dog flu also spreads through contaminated objects and environments, like water bowls, collars, and kennel surfaces, or through contact with people who have had direct contact with an infected dog. Crowded areas like kennels, grooming parlors, day care centers, and dog parks are breeding grounds for diseases like canine influenza.
How many dog flu cases are fatal?
In those instances, dogs develop pneumonia, difficulty breathing, and a high fever. Luckily, the mortality rate is relatively low, with less than 10 percent of dog flu cases resulting in fatalities.
How to help a dog recover from a fever?
Some dogs may require supportive care, such as fluids, to aid their recovery, as well as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce fevers.
How to treat dog flu?
Treatment for canine flu varies. For mild cases, the vet may simply encourage rest, home monitoring of the dog, and maybe changes in food and water intake, Collins says. If the coughing is more severe, the doctor may prescribe cough suppressants, and antibiotics if the dog has a secondary bacterial infection.
What is the cause of dog flu?
But another type of flu virus—H3N2, of bird origin —can also cause the dog flu. This virus first appeared in 2015 in the Chicago area and spread quickly to many states. The H3N2 virus, which also appeared in some cats, is the one causing the most concern in the pet community now, Collins says.
How many shots do dogs need?
However, with more than one strain in widespread circulation, dogs need both H3N2 and H3N8 vaccines to ensure protection against both flu versions, Collins says. If your dog hasn't been vaccinated and your vet recommends it, he will receive a set of two shots, given two to four weeks apart, followed by annual boosters.
How long does a dog's cough last?
Dogs that come down with a mild form of the flu will display a fever and cough that will last one to three weeks, Collins says. Other early symptoms can include decreased appetite, lethargy and a greenish discharge from the nose and eyes. Unfortunately, some dogs get sicker than this and develop a higher fever and labored breathing from pneumonia.
How do experienced vets answer your pet questions?
Experienced vets answer all your pet questions via chat or video.
Where did the dog virus come from?
Within a year of the dog virus' discovery, some pet dogs in Florida and New York City had the virus. Since then, the virus has appeared in many different areas of the United States, according to Cornell.
Can dogs die from CIV?
Dogs who are severely ill with CIV may require hospitalization for intensive care that includes intravenous fluids, antibiotics and oxygen therapy. Sadly, a small percentage of dogs still will die from the flu despite treatment, Collins says.
What are signs of canine influenza in dogs?
The signs of this illness in dogs are cough, runny nose, fever, lethargy, eye discharge, and reduced appetite, but not all dogs will show signs of illness. The severity of illness associated with canine flu in dogs can range from no signs to severe illness resulting in pneumonia and sometimes death.
What is canine influenza (dog flu)?
Canine influenza (also known as dog flu) is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by specific Type A influenza viruses known to infect dogs . These are called “canine influenza viruses.” No human infections with canine influenza have ever been reported. There are two different influenza A dog flu viruses: one is an H3N8 virus and the other is an H3N2 virus. Canine influenza A (H3N2) viruses are different from seasonal influenza A (H3N2) viruses that spread annually in people.
Where did canine influenza viruses come from and how long have they been around?
Canine influenza H3N8 viruses originated in horses, spread to dogs, and can now spread between dogs. H3N8 equine influenza (horse flu) viruses have been known to exist in horses for more than 40 years. In 2004, cases of an unknown respiratory illness in dogs (initially greyhounds) were reported in the United States. An investigation showed that this respiratory illness was caused by equine influenza A (H3N8) viruses. Scientists believe this virus jumped species (from horses to dogs) and has adapted to cause illness in dogs and spread among dogs, especially those housed in kennels and shelters. This is now considered a dog-specific, or canine, H3N8 virus. In September 2005, this virus was identified by experts as a “ newly emerging pathogen in the dog population ” in the United States. It has now been detected in dogs across much of the United States.
How does the issue of canine influenza apply to dogs imported into the US from other countries?
Both of these canine influenza viruses (H3N8 and H3N2), are now considered endemic in dogs in the United States. Additionally, at this time there is no evidence that canine influenza affects humans nor that it has pandemic potential. If there were evidence that canine influenza viruses were able to infect people with the potential for sustained human to human spread, CDC would execute its existing authorities to limit the introduction and/or spread of that pandemic strain either into or within the U.S.
What is CDC doing about canine influenza?
However, CDC is doing a number of things to be prepared in the unlikely event that canine influenza becomes a threat to humans or to animals other than canines. First, CDC continues to conduct year-round surveillance for seasonal and novel influenza A viruses and all human infections with novel influenza A viruses are fully investigated. Human infection with a novel influenza A virus of animal origin is reportable to CDC; no human infections with canine influenza viruses have been reported to date. Second, CDC and USDA APHIS VS have existing collaborative protocols to work together in the event of outbreaks of novel influenza A viruses. These same protocols would be followed in the event of an outbreak of canine influenza with suspected human infections. Third, CDC conducted a risk assessment on the pandemic potential of canine H3N2 viruses using the Influenza Risk Assessment Tool, and found it to be low risk.
How is canine influenza virus spread?
Canine flu is thought to spread mainly among dogs through respiratory droplets produced during coughing and sneezing from infected dogs, or through contact with contaminated surfaces. Therefore, dog owners whose dogs are coughing or showing other signs of respiratory disease should not expose their dog to other dogs or to cats. Clothing, equipment, surfaces, and hands should be cleaned and disinfected after exposure to dogs showing signs of respiratory disease.
Where can I find more information on canine influenza viruses?
More information on canine influenza in pet dogs can be found at the following links:
What are the symptoms of a dog with the flu?
Dogs that are infected with the canine influenza virus may develop two different syndromes: Mild – These dogs will have a cough that is typically moist and can have nasal discharge. Occasionally , it will be more of a dry cough.
How to treat dog flu?
The severe form of dog flu needs to be treated aggressively with a broad spectrum of dog antibiotics, fluids and supportive care. Hospitalization may be necessary until the dog is stable. For some dogs, canine influenza is deadly and should always be treated as a serious disease.
What to do if my dog has the flu?
If your dog develops the signs of dog flu described when there is an outbreak in your region, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Often, local news will warn of an outbreak of the dog flu. However, if your dog travels or comes into contact with dogs who travel, call your veterinarian about your dog’s symptoms in case your dog is ...
How often do dogs get flu shots?
The first time your dog is vaccinated, they will require a booster 2 to 4 weeks later. Thereafter, the canine influenza vaccine is administered annually. In addition, there are other respiratory conditions that can be vaccinated against, specifically Bordetella bronchiseptica, the bacteria responsible for what is commonly called " kennel cough ."
Why does my dog cough up blood?
The canine influenza virus affects the capillaries in the lungs, so the dog may cough up blood and have trouble breathing if there is bleeding into the air sacs. Patients may also develop secondary bacterial infections, including bacterial pneumonia, which can further complicate the situation.
How long does it take for a dog to cough?
Dogs that are infected with the canine influenza virus may develop two different syndromes: 1 Mild – These dogs will have a cough that is typically moist and can have nasal discharge. Occasionally, it will be more of a dry cough. In most cases, the symptoms will last 10 to 30 days and usually will go away on their own. It’s similar to kennel cough but persists longer. These dogs may benefit from dog flu treatment to reduce the duration or severity of symptoms. 2 Severe – Generally, these dogs have a high fever (above 104 degrees Fahrenheit) and develop signs very quickly. Pneumonia can develop. The canine influenza virus affects the capillaries in the lungs, so the dog may cough up blood and have trouble breathing if there is bleeding into the air sacs. Patients may also develop secondary bacterial infections, including bacterial pneumonia, which can further complicate the situation.
How long does dog flu last?
In most cases, the symptoms will last 10 to 30 days and usually will go away on their own. It’s similar to kennel cough but persists longer. These dogs may benefit from dog flu treatment to reduce the duration or severity of symptoms.
What is Canine Influenza?
Dog flu is an infectious upper respiratory disease. Similar to the influenza strain that affects people, it is caused by an influenza A virus. There are two known strains of canine influenza in the United States – H3N8 and H3N2. H3N8 originated in horses and jumped to dogs in 2004. The first outbreak was linked to racing greyhounds at a racetrack in Florida. H3N2 originated in Asia and is believed to have jumped from birds to canines. This is the most prevalent strain of canine influenza in the United States and has caused outbreaks in 2015 and 2016.
How to help a dog with influenza?
In more severe cases, your dog may need additional care, like intravenous or subcutaneous fluids, to help if he/she is dehydrated. If your dog has a high fever, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to lower their body temperature.
How long does it take for a dog to get flu?
Because canine influenza is extremely contagious, it’s important to isolate your dog away from other dogs. The incubation period is two to four days from exposure, with symptoms typically beginning to show around day four. Dogs with H3N2 are contagious for as many as 26 days, while dogs infected with H3N8 only run the risk of infecting others for up to 10 days after exposure.
How is the dog flu transmitted?
According to the AVMA, canine influenza is transmitted through droplets or aerosols containing respiratory secretions from coughing, barking and sneezing. Dogs in close contact with infected dogs in places such as kennels, groomers, day care facilities and shelters are at increased risk of infection. Canine influenza can be spread indirectly through objects (e.g., kennels, food and water bowls, collars and leashes) or people that have been in contact with infected dogs. It is important to clean and disinfect objects that have been in contact with an infected dog to avoid exposing other dogs to the virus. Likewise, people who have been in contact with an infected dog should wash their hands and clean their clothing to avoid spreading the virus.
What to do if your dog has the flu?
If you believe you’ve encountered a dog with canine influenza, it is important to wash your hands and arms and change your clothing before touching your dog.
How much sleep does a dog need?
Adult dogs usually get about 12 to 14 hours of sleep a day (puppies and geriatric dogs tend to get a little more.) If your dog is taking more snoozes than usual, it’s possible they’re not feeling well.
Why does my dog have a watery eye?
Sometimes having a watery eye could just mean your dog has a hair or other irritant in it, but if your dog looks like they’re constantly crying, it’s usually a sign of infection.
What to do if your dog has the flu?
When you arrive for your appointment, Dr. Dean recommends briefly leaving your dog in the car while you quickly let the receptionist know you’re there.
How does dog flu spread?
It’s highly contagious, spreading from dog to dog via coughs, sneezes, barking, and saliva from toys and bowls.
How can you tell if your dog is sick?
Dogs can be stoic and hide symptoms of disease very well, so sometimes it’s hard to tell your companion is under the weather. Dr. Heather Dean of Colquitt Animal Hospital in Georgia says, “Infections can cause mild to severe illness in dogs. Some dogs may develop secondary bacterial infections which may lead to more severe illness and pneumonia.” And with super common respiratory symptoms, dog flu can look like other, less serious illnesses, so it’s important to address any abrupt changes or sudden onset symptoms as soon as possible. Find out the 50 secrets your dog won’t tell you.
How long does a dog cough last?
The most common of all dog flu symptoms is a persistent cough. This type of cough can last anywhere from 10 to 21 days and is a hallmark symptom of canine influenza. Cough should not be treated with human cough suppressants as they can harm your pooch. Seek treatment from your veterinarian.
What does it mean when a dog shivers?
Dog flu symptom: Trembling or shivering. Often associated with cold, trembling or shivering is also a classic sign of fever and can also be a pain response. If your pooch has a case of the shivers but is not in a cold environment (and is not a chihuahua!), it could mean he or she has a fever. Pinkcandy/Shutterstock.
What to do if my dog never leaves home?
Clean all leashes and toys. Also, discuss whether the dog flu vaccine is appropriate for your pup. If your dog never leaves home and doesn’t come into contact with other dogs, the vaccine might be unnecessary as risk of infection is low. It’s also important to know these warning signs of cancer in dogs.
How long does mucus last in dogs?
More than just a sniffle, this mucus can come on quickly and last as long as three weeks.
What is dog flu?
Dog flu, also known as canine influenza and canine respiratory disease complex (CRC), is a highly contagious viral respiratory infection that affects dogs. The virus can be transmitted from dog to dog via saliva, nasal discharge, and fecal matter, but it can also cause cross-species infections in humans who have close contact with infected animals.
What causes dog flu?
The dog flu, or canine influenza (CIV), is caused by a number of different viruses that can be spread through direct contact with an infected dog and indirect contact. The virus can also be spread via contaminated objects and surfaces such as clothes, shoes, toys, food bowls, and hands.
How is dog flu treated?
Treatment for the dog flu will vary depending on your dog’s health and the virus strain. In most cases, you can treat canine influenza with antibiotics. However, there are no reliable tests to determine whether or not your pet has CIV, so it’s a good idea to talk with your veterinarian about all available treatment options before making a decision.
How can you protect your dog from the flu?
In the event that your dog does get sick, there are a few things you can do to help.
Conclusion
If your dog has the flu, you should seek immediate medical attention. In most cases, your veterinarian will be able to treat your dog’s symptoms and prevent them from becoming worse.
What is the dog flu?
Dog flu, also known as canine influenza, is a virus that you may have never heard of - unless you are having an outbreak in your area.
What causes canine influenza?
Canine influenza is a highly transmissible virus. Infected dogs shed large amounts of the virus through sneezing, coughing, and nasal discharge. This virus can also easily be spread on a variety of surfaces, including walls, floors, collars, brushes, and even human hands. The virus can remain infectious for up to 48 hours in the environment, causing infection in any dogs who come in contact with contaminated surfaces.
How to prevent dog flu?
The most effective means of preventing dog flu is to avoid contact with infected dogs . Unfortunately, this isn’t always a practical option! Therefore, dogs that are at high risk of infection should be vaccinated against canine influenza.
How long does the flu stay in dogs?
This virus can also easily be spread on a variety of surfaces, including walls, floors, collars, brushes, and even human hands. The virus can remain infectious for up to 48 hours in the environment, causing infection in any dogs who come in contact with contaminated surfaces.
How many states will have dog flu in 2021?
As of 2021, dog flu has been documented to have occurred in 46 states. Recent outbreaks have involved California, Florida, Indiana, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Texas.
How to check if my dog has pneumonia?
Your veterinarian will begin by performing a thorough physical exam. They will listen to your dog’s lungs closely, looking for evidence of pneumonia, and assess your dog’s overall health. If your pet is showing signs of respiratory distress, your veterinarian will also likely recommend radiographs (x-rays) of your dog’s chest and blood tests to rule out other underlying illnesses.
Is canine flu similar to human flu?
The signs of canine influenza are similar to the signs of flu in humans:
Prevention Rests on the Dog Owner
Preventing your dog from contracting the infection is key. The highly contagious virus is usually passed among dogs who are interacting in the same space, such as at doggy day care centers, training classes, groomers, boarding kennels and dog parks. Dr.
Symptoms of the New Flu
The symptoms for H3N2 are like those of H3N8. They include lots of coughing, sneezing and a runny nose. There are reports that many dogs infected by the H3N2 strain develop pneumonia, but it is not known if this virus causes more pneumonia than the H3N8 virus.
Treatment Protocols
Your veterinarian will guide you on what is best for your dog, and you should follow her treatment protocol precisely. But in general, dogs who are diagnosed with canine influenza need to rest, maintain their fluid and food intake, and remain isolated from other dogs until they are no longer infectious. This could take 10 to 14 days.