Canine Flu

Canine Flu, also known as canine influenza virus (CIV), is currently experiencing an outbreak. This highly contagious influenza A virus has two common strains in the US: H3N8 and H3N2. These strains spread rapidly through saliva droplets and contaminated surfaces. If your dog shows symptoms like coughing, fever, or lethargy, it might be time to consult your vet. Understanding the risks, spread, and treatment of canine flu is crucial for keeping your furry friend healthy. Read on for essential information on protecting your pet.

Did you know that your canine companion can get the flu? In fact, there’s an outbreak going on now. Fido’s version, canine influenza virus (CIV)–also often called the dog flu—is an influenza A virus. There are several strains, but the two that are most common in the US are H3N8 and H3N2. These strains are both extremely contagious, and are the culprits behind the current outbreak. A local vet offers some information on this below.

Symptoms

If Fido gets the flu, he’ll likely have many of the same symptoms as you would, such as coughing, nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, and reduced appetite. Of these, coughing is the most common. It may also be the most persistent. That said, our furry friends all react differently to the flu. Some pups will not show any symptoms at all. Other dogs may bounce back after a few days, or stay sick for weeks. A few will become severely ill. In rare cases, dog flu can be fatal. Senior dogs and pooches with chronic illnesses and/or immune deficiencies are at highest risk.

Spread

Fido’s flu can spread extremely quickly. The virus is transmitted through droplets of saliva, and can remain active in respiratory droplets on surfaces for several hours. Pups can easily contract it through shared toys or dishes. Fido could also get sick by greeting or nose-booping another pooch, or even just by sniffing a stick at a park that a sick dog played with hours ago. 

Dogs that have contracted the flu remain contagious for about a month. As one can imagine, places like dog parks, daycares, grooming salons, and kennels can quickly become hotspots of contagion. Another potential source of spread? People! Someone who pets an infected dog and then a healthy one may quickly spread the illness from pooch to pooch. Be aware of the risks when taking Fido to different places. You can also track the current outbreak online here.

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no cure for the canine flu. In most cases, dogs recover on their own, though they may need some extra TLC. You’ll need to keep your furry pal comfy and hydrated, and monitor him carefully. If you know or suspect that your pup has the flu, reach out to your vet and ask for specific care tips. In severe cases, your dog may require Critical Care services, which we provide for pets facing serious health challenges.

Understanding Canine Flu in 2024: Strains, Mortality, Contagion, and Prevention

What are the specific strains of canine influenza virus (CIV)?

Canine influenza virus (CIV) primarily consists of two specific strains that are prevalent in the United States: H3N8 and H3N2. Both strains are highly contagious and responsible for the current outbreak. H3N8 originated from horses, while H3N2 came from birds. These strains cause symptoms similar to those seen in humans with the flu, such as coughing, nasal discharge, fever, lethargy, and reduced appetite. It’s essential to monitor and care for your dog if they show any signs of illness, as CIV can spread rapidly and may require veterinary attention.

What is the mortality rate of canine influenza?

The mortality rate of canine influenza is generally low, but it can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and age. While most dogs recover within a few weeks, severe cases can occur, particularly in senior dogs or those with underlying health conditions. In rare instances, the dog flu can be fatal. The primary strains in the U.S., H3N8 and H3N2, are highly contagious, but with proper care and monitoring, the majority of infected dogs recover without serious complications. Consulting with a veterinarian is crucial for managing symptoms and ensuring proper treatment.

How long do infected dogs remain contagious?

Infected dogs remain contagious for about a month. During this time, the virus can be transmitted through droplets of saliva and can stay active on surfaces for several hours. Dogs can catch the flu by sharing toys, dishes, or even by greeting another dog. People can also spread the virus by petting an infected dog and then a healthy one. To prevent further spread, it’s essential to keep infected dogs isolated from other pets and practice good hygiene. Be cautious in high-risk areas like dog parks and kennels.

How effective is the canine influenza vaccine?

The canine influenza vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of dogs contracting the flu, although it is not 100% effective. It works similarly to human flu vaccines, by priming the immune system to recognize and combat the virus. Vaccinated dogs may still get the flu, but the symptoms are often milder and the duration shorter. The vaccine is particularly recommended for dogs that are frequently in contact with other dogs, such as those that visit parks, grooming salons, or boarding facilities. It’s an important preventative measure to consider, especially during outbreaks.

Is there any risk of canine influenza transmission to humans?

Canine influenza, caused by the H3N8 and H3N2 strains of the canine influenza virus (CIV), poses no risk to humans. Unlike human flu viruses, CIV is species-specific and does not cross the species barrier to infect people. The virus spreads primarily among dogs through respiratory droplets, shared toys, and surfaces. Despite the highly contagious nature of canine flu among dogs, there is no evidence to suggest that it can be transmitted to humans. Thus, while vigilant care is necessary to prevent the spread among dogs, humans remain unaffected by this virus.

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? We’re here to help! Contact us, your local animal clinic in Waterdown, ON!