Dog flu – everything you need to know
Canine influenza, just like human flu, is extremely contagious. In most cases, infected dogs will make a full recovery without needing to visit the vet. However, just as with humans, sometimes medication and hospitalisation might be necessary.
Canine influenza virus (CIV) is one of the viral causes of kennel cough. It is a relatively new virus so many dogs haven’t been exposed to it before.
What are the symptoms to watch for?
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- A fever
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
A key symptom of the virus is that infected dogs will show strong signs of breathlessness. If left untreated, the disease can turn into pneumonia – an extremely serious condition for dogs.
How do dogs catch flu?
Dog flu is transferred via airborne respiratory fluids when an infected dog coughs, barks or sneezes. The virus doesn’t survive very long once outside the body, so is often caught from being in close proximity to other dogs.
It can also be transferred via shared toys, food or water bowls and bedding. Thoroughly wash everything the infected dog has come into contact with to minimise risk of transmission.
Furthermore, it is possible to transfer the virus by petting an infected dog and then petting your own dog shortly afterwards.
If you have more than one dog, keep the infected dog away from the others until he has fully recovered – ideally for several weeks after all of the symptoms have passed. The dog’s immune system might have halted the spread of the virus, but it could still be carrying the virus which would put other dogs at risk.
Do monitor the other dogs carefully as dog flu is at its most contagious before the infected dog shows any symptoms.
How is dog flu treated?
The treatment will depend on the severity of the illness and your vet will be able to tell you the best course of action to treat your dog.
Antivirals: your dog may be put on these if the illness is caught early on.
Antibiotics: your dog may be put on these if there is a secondary bacterial infection.
Suppressants: your dog may require these if he is coughing severely.
IV fluids, and medication: may be needed to reduce a dog’s fever.
What you need to help your dog recover?
Water: all dogs should have access to plenty of fresh water to keep them hydrated.
Rest: all dogs should have plenty of access to rest.
Patience: recovery can take from 10 days to one month.
Is there a vaccine?
The vaccination involves two injections given to dogs several weeks apart. It is a preventative measure and not a treatment to use on dogs that are already infected with the flu virus
The vaccine is expensive and like all vaccines, isn’t totally risk-free, so do check with your vet if this is the right option for your dog.
Reducing the risk?
- Avoid areas that are popular dog walking places.
- Don’t share your pets’ toys with other dogs.
- Make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water in a regularly washed bowl.
- Always wash your hands before and after you have played with or handled your dog.
- Ideally get your pet groomed at home, using your own tools. Otherwise choose a grooming centre that is both aware of canine flu and well ventilated.
- When choosing a boarding kennel opt for one with an infection control routine and policy in place that includes canine flu.
- Keep your dog away from bird droppings – it is thought that wild birds can spread the disease in their droppings.
Good to know?
English and French Bulldogs and Pugs with squashed up faces and brachycephalic muzzles are at a higher risk of catching canine flu and are also more prone to breathing problems.
Can we catch dog flu?
No human infections with canine influenza have ever been reported.
First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for veterinary advice. The author does not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies or for any mistreatment or misdiagnosis of any person or animal, however caused. It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid for Pets course or take our online course to understand what to do in a medical emergency.