Just like the human flu, dog flu is spread through close contact with other dogs in highly populated areas. Dogs that frequent doggy day care, kennels or dog parks are more at risk of exposure.
According to the CDC, dog symptoms include “cough, runny nose, fever, lethargy, eye discharge, and reduced appetite.” It is possible for dogs with the flu to be asymptomatic and recover on their own. Symptoms can last up to 2-3 weeks. Although very rare, it is possible for dogs to develop pneumonia and even die from the flu.
Like the human flu, the large majority of dogs that catch the flu recover wonderfully within 2-3 weeks. Rest and hydration are usually the best treatments. It is very rare for dogs with the flu to catch pneumonia and even more rare for the virus to become deadly.
Take your dog to the vet as soon as he or she starts displaying signs of the flu. Although many cases are mild, your vet will check for signs of bacterial infections and/or pneumonia and prescribe medication or other treatments accordingly.
Vaccines exist for both the H3N8 and H3N2 strains of canine influenza. Speak to your vet about whether these vaccines are appropriate for your pup.
Canine influenza is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by one of two canine influenza viruses: H3N8 virus and H3N2 virus. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that no human cases of canine influenza have ever been reported. In other words, you cannot catch canine flu from your dog.
