The 2009 Porcine Influenza A Virus subtype H1N1, also known as "swine flu", continues to infect a growing number of animal species. The first canine infections have just been reported in two dogs from Beijing, China. Pigs are the only other animal species in China known to be infected. In the US, birds, cats, ferrets, and pigs have tested positive for H1N1 infection, but no canine infections have yet been reported.
Since early November, felines from Iowa, Oregon, and Utah and ferrets from Nebraska and Oregon have tested positive for H1N1. Oregon and Nebraska bear the burden of having animal deaths secondary to H1N1 infection, as the cat from Oregon and ferret from Nebraska did not survive.
As with the feline and ferret cases, humans are the suspected source of H1N1 infection for the Chinese dogs. The H1N1 virus found in the Chinese canines is nearly genetically identical to the virus isolated form people. The genetic similarity lends strength to the perspective that the virus transferred from humans to dogs. Chinese officials speculate that H1N1 can be passed among dogs, yet this suspicion is unconfirmed.
In May 2009, I wrote: “Swine Flu- could H1N1 infect your canine?”. At the time, veterinary virologists were not concerned about the possibility that dogs would be infected with the virus. The veterinary community must now show greater concern for the potential spread of the disease between people and pets. Perhaps more companion animal species will be infected as we observe the progression over the coming months.
Influenza virus infection in dogs is well documented. Canine Influenza was first isolated in Florida racing Greyhounds in 2004 and has since been reported in nearly all states.
Canine Influenza is an Influenza Type A virus similar to H1N1 (see Canine Influenza- can dog flu infect your pooch?) and is genetically related to Equine Influenza virus. It is therefore speculated that Canine Influenza jumped species from equine to canine.
Recently, Canine Influenza infection has hit close to home in Los Angeles, CA. The virus reportedly spread through a San Gabriel Valley (Los Angeles County) veterinary hospital in 2009 where 20 dogs showed mild signs of upper respiratory tract infection.
A Canine Influenza vaccine is available, although it has not yet been widely incorporated into veterinary vaccination protocols.
As Canine Influenza was able to spread among members of the species housed in close quarters, I suspect H1N1 will spread among members of the canine species when given the appropriate opportunity. Dog kennels, shelters, and shows are likely to give the virus the environment necessary for inter-canine transference.
Pet owners play an important role in reducing the zoonotic spread of H1N1 and other organisms between people and pets. Your vigilance in reducing the spread of H1N1 between people may prevent your cat or dog from being infected.
Practice good sanitary habits by washing your hands frequently and covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough. If you are sick, avoid close contact with others, including your animal companions. Closely monitor your pet for signs of illness, especially upper respiratory tract signs. Sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, increased respiratory effort, lethargy, and decreased appetite can indicate upper respiratory tract infection. Should your pet show clinical signs of illness, please schedule an examination with your veterinarian.
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