Did you know that your canine companion can get the flu? In fact, there’s an outbreak going on now. Fido’s version, canine influenza virus (CIV)–also often called the dog flu—is an influenza A virus. There are several strains, but the two that are most common in the US are H3N8 and H3N2. These strains are both extremely contagious, and are the culprits behind the current outbreak. A local vet offers some information on this below.
Symptoms
If Fido gets the flu, he’ll likely have many of the same symptoms as you would, such as coughing, nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, and reduced appetite. Of these, coughing is the most common. It may also be the most persistent. That said, our furry friends all react differently to the flu. Some pups will not show any symptoms at all. Other dogs may bounce back after a few days, or stay sick for weeks. A few will become severely ill. In rare cases, dog flu can be fatal. Senior dogs and pooches with chronic illnesses and/or immune deficiencies are at highest risk.
Spread
Fido’s flu can spread extremely quickly. The virus is transmitted through droplets of saliva, and can remain active in respiratory droplets on surfaces for several hours. Pups can easily contract it through shared toys or dishes. Fido could also get sick by greeting or nose-booping another pooch, or even just by sniffing a stick at a park that a sick dog played with hours ago.
Dogs that have contracted the flu remain contagious for about a month. As one can imagine, places like dog parks, daycares, grooming salons, and kennels can quickly become hotspots of contagion. Another potential source of spread? People! Someone who pets an infected dog and then a healthy one may quickly spread the illness from pooch to pooch. Be aware of the risks when taking Fido to different places. You can also track the current outbreak online here.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for the canine flu. In most cases, dogs recover on their own, though they may need some extra TLC. You’ll need to keep your furry pal comfy and hydrated, and monitor him carefully. If you know or suspect that your pup has the flu, reach out to your vet and ask for specific care tips.
Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? We’re here to help!
Our Advice on Canine Flu in 2024
What is the incubation period for canine influenza, and how long can dogs remain asymptomatic while still being contagious?
The incubation period for canine influenza virus (CIV) is typically 2-4 days from initial exposure to the onset of clinical signs. However, infected dogs can shed the virus and remain contagious for up to 28 days, even if they are not showing any symptoms. This means that apparently healthy dogs can still spread CIV to other dogs during this extended contagious period. The ability of asymptomatic dogs to transmit the virus contributes significantly to the rapid spread of CIV in settings like kennels, dog parks, and other areas where dogs congregate.
Are there any specific breeds or age groups of dogs that are more susceptible to severe cases of canine flu?
Certain dogs are indeed more susceptible to severe cases of canine flu. Senior dogs, as well as those with chronic health conditions or compromised immune systems, face a higher risk of experiencing severe symptoms. While all breeds can contract canine influenza, these specific age and health conditions make some dogs more vulnerable to complications. It’s crucial for owners of at-risk dogs to monitor their pets closely and seek veterinary guidance promptly if they suspect their dog has contracted the flu.
How effective are the current canine influenza vaccines in preventing infection?
Current canine influenza vaccines are formulated to protect against the most common strains of the virus, H3N8 and H3N2. While these vaccines are effective in reducing the severity and duration of symptoms, they may not always prevent infection entirely. Vaccination is particularly effective in reducing the spread of the virus among dog populations and is highly recommended in outbreak areas. For the best protection, it’s crucial that dogs receive regular vaccinations as directed by a veterinarian, especially those frequently exposed to other dogs in communal settings.
Can dogs contract the flu from other species, such as cats or humans?
Dogs cannot contract the flu from humans as the influenza viruses are generally species-specific. The canine influenza virus (CIV) does not cross-infect humans. However, the situation with cats is different. While historically less common, there have been documented cases where cats have contracted the H3N2 strain of canine influenza. This cross-species transmission has predominantly been observed in environments like shelters where high-density housing facilitates the spread of pathogens. Nonetheless, canine influenza primarily spreads among dogs, with human-to-dog or cat-to-dog transmission being highly unlikely.
What are the long-term effects of canine influenza on a dog’s health?
Canine influenza can have varying long-term effects on a dog’s health depending on the severity of the infection and the individual dog’s immune response. While many dogs recover fully with no lasting effects, others may experience complications such as pneumonia or exacerbation of underlying health conditions. In some cases, particularly with severe infections or in dogs with compromised immune systems, there may be long-term respiratory issues or increased susceptibility to secondary infections. Owners should monitor their dogs closely during and after the illness and consult with a veterinarian if they have concerns about long-term effects.
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