Here's Everything You Need To Know About Canine Influenza

As the months get colder, dogs are more at risk of developing illnesses such as canine influenza. Here’s what you need to know about it.

Infection

This disease is spread via respiratory secretions, objects that are contaminated, and humans who carry the disease from an infected dog to a healthy one.

Human Risk

There has never been any case of canine influenza being transferred to humans, but the possibility of mutation is always a threat.

Virus Shedding

Symptoms of canine influenza approximately two or three days after first infection, with the worst conditions occurring three to four days after first infection. After ten days, the virus has typically stopped being infectious.

Symptoms

Symptoms include a runny nose, lethargy, a soft cough, and appetite loss. Dogs may also develop very severe symptoms, such as a high fever, loud coughing, coughing up blood, and respiratory issues. Severe symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis

Most vets use serum samples and nasal swabs to diagnose canine influenza.

Vaccines

As of now, there are no commercial vaccinations against the H3N2 strain of canine influenza, but there are H3N8 strain vaccinations available.

Infection Control

If you plan to send your dog to a place with other animals, ask the facility about respiratory disease cases and infection control.

Prevention

To lower the risk of transmitting the disease to your dog, wash your hands well before and after handling an animal, their waste products, their cages, and any other relevant time.

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