Hot on the heels of the H1N1 virus problems is a relatively new upper respiratory illness caused by a specific Type A influenza. Although “dog flu” is contagious, it is not spread from dogs to humans. Fortunately, the number of dogs infected with this flu that die is quite small.
Originally an equine (horse) flu virus, it has existed in the U.S. for more than 40 years. Then in 2004, racing greyhounds in Florida were coming down with un unrecognized respiratory disease. By August, there were outbreaks of the disease at 14 tracks in 6 states, and by May of 2005, it had spread to 11 states. Virtually in all segments of the pet industry, dogs were being diagnosed with dog flu.
There are two forms of the disease, with a mild form and a severe form that often results in pneumonia. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Dogs exhibiting symptoms of the mild form have a “soft, moist cough” that can last for up to 30 days despite treatment. This can lead to a secondary bacterial infection that presents as a thick nasal discharge. Temperatures are mildly elevated. But dog flu is not the only disease that causes this coughing; Bordetella bronchiseptica/parainfluenza virus complex causes “kennel cough,” which often is mistakenly diagnosed when the dog actually has flu.
High fevers (104° to 106°F) accompany the severe form of dog flu can be accompanied by increased respiratory rates typical of pneumonia. A secondary bacterial infection may be the reason that pneumonia frequently follows.
How is canine flu treated?
Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine available against canine influenza. However, other vaccines that prevent respiratory infections in dogs may be useful in building the dog’s immune system and helping him recover faster if he does contract the flu. With good, basic virus control measures, you should not be overly concerned about exposing your dog to areas where other dogs converge, such as training facilities, dog parks, or kennels.
If your dog develops a cough, the first thing you should do is schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Even if it is the flu, treatment will most likely consist of measures to help boost the dog’s immune system and keep him comfortable. If he is dehydrated, the vet may administer fluids, and if a secondary infection is also present, he may prescribe an antimicrobial to deal with that situation.
Like the human flu virus, canine influenza can be spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions and by coming into contact with objects that have been touched. If your dog develops the illness, clean and disinfect clothing, equipment and surfaces after being exposed to a sick dog. It is very important to wash your hands before touching another animal. No unusual methods of cleaning are necessary; normal hand washing and clothes laundering should do the trick.
For more information on canine influenza, go to these sites:
American Veterinary Medical Association - www.avma.org
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine - www.vetmed.ufl.edu/pr
Cornell University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory - http://www.diaglab.vet.cornell.edu/issues/civ.asp
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - www.cdc.gov/healthypets
Association of Shelter Veterinarians - www.sheltervet.org
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