We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions regarding the canine flu. Keep reading to learn what you need to know.

What is the Canine Flu?

The canine flu, more properly called canine influenza, is a contagious viral respiratory disease that affects dogs. It is not the same flu that people get and is not transmissible between pets and people.

Canine influenza infects the respiratory tract of infected dogs, most often causing a mild to moderate cold. Symptoms of the dog flu include:

  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Fever

Occasionally an infected pet can develop pneumonia secondary to infection. This may result in a more serious sickness.

We first saw the canine flu in racing greyhounds in Florida in 2004. Since then it has been an infrequent cause of illness in dogs in close contact with other dogs.

Why is Canine Influenza Suddenly Such a Big Deal?

Starting in April, dogs in the Chicago area began falling ill from what appeared to be a kennel cough outbreak. Unlike the kennel cough that is normally seen, however, this form of kennel cough seemed to cause more nasal discharge and had a higher incidence of the development of pneumonia.

We soon learned that the reason that this particular strain of kennel cough was different was due to the involvement of the canine influenza virus. Unlike the previous outbreaks that had been caused by the H3N8 strain, this canine influenza virus has been shown to be the H3N2 virus. Until now, this strain has not been seen in the United States.

Do I Need to be Worried About My Pet?

With six dogs having succumbed to the current canine influenza outbreak, pet owners are rightfully concerned.

The percentage of dogs infected with the canine flu who die, however, is very small. Some dogs do not even show signs of illness. It is important to take steps to protect your pet, however at this time there is no need for panic.

How Can I Protect My Pet?

Pet owners should be taking precautions to protect their pets from the canine flu, especially if they have older pets, very young pets, or animals with other illnesses. The dog flu is spread through respiratory secretions. Dogs that are housed closely together such as those in a boarding kennel are at highest risks.

Be sure to:

  • Vaccinate your pets – There is currently a vaccine available for the H3N8 strain of canine influenza. To date, however, no vaccination exists for the H2N3 strain that is affecting the Midwest currently. It is not known whether the H3N8 vaccine will offer any protection against the H2N3 flu. It is important, however, to be sure your dog’s distemper and Bordetella vaccines are current. These vaccines contain protection against other infectious organisms that frequently occur in combination with the dog flu. A pet who is immune to these bugs has a better chance of fighting off the flu virus.
  • Reconsider high risk areas – There is currently no need to boycott doggy daycare or the grooming salon, but you may reconsider taking your pet places where dogs congregate if he or she is at high risk.
  • Have your pet examined – If your dog is acting sick after being around other pets, please make an appointment to have him or her looked at. Early intervention is key to making sure infected dogs are able to recover.

The canine flu is a newer, emerging disease that we are still learning about. While it is scary when we are dealing with a new disease, it appears that for the most part canine influenza is not serious. It is important to be cautious, but there is no need for pet owners to worry.