What You Need To Know About When Dogs Get The Flu
Scientists have named the influenza viruses for the way that two specific proteins combine with one another. (hemagglutinin and neuraminidase). Canine influenza is found in two distinct strains known as H3N8 and H3N2.
Although only 80% of infected dogs demonstrate symptoms consistent with canine influenza, all of them are contagious. The known fatality rate for canine influenza is <10%.
The history of canine influenza
In 2004, the H3N8 strain appeared in Florida as a result of transmitted to Greyhounds from racehorses. The H3N2 strain first made its appearance in Chicago in 2015. Previously in existence in only Thailand, China and South Korea.
It is thought that the H3N2 strain jumped from infected birds in the Asian markets. Subsequently, the virus was imported to the United States by dogs infected with this strain.
How does the canine influenza virus attack dogs?
The canine influenza virus enters the dog’s nose and travels to the lungs through the respiratory tract, attacking its cells. It causes varying degrees of inflammation from mild to severe throughout that tract. It can take between two and three weeks for the dog to recover.
Any dog of any breed, sex or either sex can become infected with the canine influenza virus. However, some are at greater risk of both catching the virus and to having a more severe infection. Those dogs are:
- pregnant dogs
- dogs with respiratory disease
- those with tracheal collapse
- dogs on immunosuppressive medication
How can a dog get the flu?
There is not a flu season for dogs as there seems to be for humans so they are at risk all throughout the year. Once exposed to the virus, the 2-4 day period of incubation begins. No signs of infection should be demonstrated before that period has transpired. Infected dogs can transmit the virus for up to 21 days and should be kept away from all other dogs during that time.
Some of the most common ways that the influenza virus is transferred to a dog is via one of these methods:
- sharing a tennis ball or chew toy
- drinking out of a contaminated water or food bowl
- being patted on the head
- nose to nose greeting from an infected dog
What are the symptoms demonstrated when a dog gets the flu?
Just like with humans, not all dogs will demonstrate the same symptoms. The most common symptoms seen in dogs with the flu are as follows:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Nasal congestion with or without a heavy nasal discharge
- Decrease in appetite
- A persistent and soft dry cough for up to 21 days although treated
Because of the cough, some dog owners think that their dog has kennel cough, a very contagious tracheobronchitis. Other bacteria and viruses that present in a similar fashion are:
- canine distemper
- bordetella
- mycoplasma
- parainfluenza
- canine adenovirus-2
Any dog showing signs of the flu should be taken to a veterinarian.
Please notify the vet’s office that you are bringing in a dog with indications of the flu. Ask specifically if they have a special entrance for contagious animals or if you should remain in your car until they are ready to examine your dog.
Life style tips to prevent your dog from getting the Flu
- Do not allow your dog to share water or food bowls with other dogs.
- Take your own water to public places
- Upon arrival to your home, remove your shoes at the door and wash your hands prior to touching your dog.
- Leashes and dog coats/sweaters/shoes should also be left at the door upon returning home.
It is important to maintain clean surfaces throughout the house. Canine flu rarely lasts longer than 48 hours on those surfaces and can be remedies inactive by several common cleaners. A bleach-water solution is one of the best cleaners for disinfecting those surfaces. Contaminated fabric must be washed with regular detergent in hot water.
Now for the really big question. Can people get the flu from a sick dog?
To date, there is no real evidence that the influenza virus can be transmitted from canines to humans. However, there are other viruses that are zoon0tic, meaning that they can be spread between the two species. Therefore, vulnerable populations of people such as the very young or very old, pregnant or those in an immunocompromised condition should stay away from sick animals.
Although humans may not be at risk of contracting the flu from dogs, it is possible for other animals to do so. A cat contracted the H3N2 influenza virus from dog in 2016. This took place in an animal shelter in Indiana.
The most common symptoms displayed by cats sick with the influenza virus are:
- Fatigue
- Nasal discharge
- Congestion
- Excess salivation
- Lip-smacking
Cats, ferrets and guinea pigs can catch this specific influenza virus (H3N2) from dogs. However, it does not appear that the H3N8 can be transferred from dogs to any of horses, ferrets or other species of animals. Please ask your veterinarian about the risk for other kinds of animals.
Prevention is the key to avoid your dog getting the flu.
- Similar to all infectious illnesses, prevention is the best way to avoid your dog from becoming ill with the canine influenza virus. Over the past few years, we have all had plenty of experience in practicing the known methods of avoiding contagious diseases.
In addition to the honoring of safe distances and vigorous hand washing, making healthy life-style choices can help build a stronger immune system to help you avoid becoming ill.
Elements of a lifestyle that keeps you healthy are:
- Eat a healthy diet of n:utritious food.
- Maintain a set routine of exercise.
- Engage in stress reduction.
Related articles
Disinfecting after your dog has had the canine influenza virus is important. Here is information on this topic. How do you clean up after Canine Influenza Virus? (petplace.com)
Veterinarian care for very ill dogs can be quite expensive. Do you have the financial wherewithal to pay for such high vet bills? Are you aware of ways to find money to pay for your dog’s medical care? Check out this article: https://happymutt.org/can-you-afford-to-own-a-dog/