What Is Dog Flu
Dog flu is a term used to describe the canine influenza virus. It is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can be fatal for dogs.
The dog flu virus was first discovered in 2004 as a new strain of the equine influenza virus. The canine influenza virus is very similar to the human seasonal flu, with symptoms including fever, runny nose, cough and lethargy. However, it has been found that symptoms are more severe in dogs than they are in humans.
How do you treat a dog with the flu?
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.[1]
Can dog flu be transmitted to humans?
There is no evidence that either strain of canine influenza (H3N8 or H3N2) can infect humans.[2]
How is dog flu diagnosed?
Due to its similarities to other respiratory infections, canine influenza cannot be diagnosed on clinical signs alone. If a veterinarian sees a dog within the first few days of the onset of clinical signs, a nasal swab for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test can be submitted to a veterinary diagnostic lab.[3]
How long does a dog flu last?
Most dogs recover within 2 to 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.[4]
Can you treat dog flu at home?
Most cases of H3N2 flu in dogs can be treated at home. Supportive care is critical to a dog’s recovery. Dogs should be encouraged to eat, drink, and rest.[5]
How long does the flu last?
Flu Complications Most people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death.[6]
Can dogs get sick from Covid?
The virus that causes COVID-19 can spread from people to animals during close contact. Pets worldwide, including cats and dogs, have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19. The risk of pets spreading COVID-19 to people is low.[7]
What medicine can you give a dog for fever?
Tylenol® is a non-opiate pain relieving drug sometimes given to dogs to relieve pain and fever. Tylenol® is typically a combination of acetaminophen and codeine.[8]
What causes dog flu?
There are two strains of the virus that causes dog flu (Influenza Type A): H3N8 and H3N2. Both primarily infect the respiratory system and are extremely contagious. While some dogs become very ill with dog flu, others can be exposed to the virus and fight off infection without ever getting sick.[9]
Should I take my dog to the vet if he has the flu?
Most dogs recover from canine influenza virus fully if they are provided with good care and medical attention as required. If you suspect your dog may have canine influenza, take them to the vet right away.[10]
Is kennel cough the same as dog flu?
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”.[11]
How easy is it to give your dog the flu?
THOUGH THERE ARE SOME SIMILARITIES IN SYMPTOMS, THERE IS NO CONCLUSIVE EVIDENCE THAT DOGS CAN CATCH THE FLU FROM HUMANS, OR VICE VERSA. Canine influenza virus (CIV) is most commonly spread in “high-traffic” dog areas, like boarding kennels, doggie daycares, dog parks, and animal shelters.[12]
