A relatively new virus, canine flu first appeared in 2004. It is thought to have come from equine flu, which passed from horses to Greyhounds and then mutated into a canine specific form of influenza. Naturally, as a concerned dog owner, you will want to know how this virus can be spread, what the symptoms are and how can it be treated?
Which Dogs are Susceptible to Canine flu?
Unfortunately, all dogs can contract canine flu. It is passed from one dog to another in the same way that human flu would be passed between us. Therefore, your dog is more likely to be infected with the virus if he, or she, spends time with many other dogs, for example at the dog park, a veterinary surgery or boarding kennels.
As can be expected, dogs that are already unwell, due to age or an infection, are more susceptible to the virus and are likely to experience more severe symptoms.
Currently, it is believed that it is impossible for humans to contract the virus, but it is very possible for humans to help spread it from one dog to another. Therefore, if you hire a dog walker or pet sitter, it is crucial to ensure that this person is taking steps to prevent spreading canine flu. In addition, if you have touched a dog that may be unwell, it is imperative that you wash your hands thoroughly before touching your own or somebody else’s dog. Moreover, sharing food and water bowls can also cause the virus to spread.
Canine Flu Symptoms
Perhaps unsurprisingly, cases of canine flu are very similar to cases of human flu and the same symptoms can be expected. However, as a dog owner, you will need to be vigilant of slight and subtle changes in your dog’s behavior or demeanour, as dogs can be stoic and will hide any signs of illness. The symptoms that you should be on the look out for include:
Lack of energy
Reduced appetite
Runny nose
Elevated temperature
Cough
These symptoms may be indicative of other illnesses, such as kennel cough, so your dog may not necessarily have canine flu, but it is a good idea to visit your vet if any of these symptoms appear.
How Canine Flu is Treated
As with all viruses, whether they are in humans or animals, there is no cure for canine flu. Instead, treatments are offered that will help the body’s immune system fight the infection. So, in the majority of cases, treatment does not extend beyond rest and hydration. Of course, in some cases, supplements may be prescribed to boost natural defences and, in instances when secondary infection is likely, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent further complications.
In most cases, canine flu will pass in a week or so and will not affect your dog too badly. If your are concerned about your dog’s already weak immune system, then it may be beneficial to look into vaccinating your dog against canine flu.
However, the canine flu vaccine was only agreed for usage in 2009 and, unfortunately, it cannot prevent a dog from contracting the virus; it merely reduces the severity of the symptoms. Currently, the American Veterinary Medical Association does not recommend vaccination for all dogs. Therefore, it is only those who have a compromised immune system, or are spending time in an affected area, that are receiving the shot.
If your dog is elderly and/or unwell and you are worried about him, or her, catching canine flu, then it is crucial to speak to your vet who will be able to offer advice on the best course of action.
Read the original: What Is Canine Flu And How Can I Protect My Dog?
