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Canine Influenza
What is canine influenza?
Canine influenza is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by a "flu" virus. In dogs, a highly
contagious strain of the influenza A virus known as H3N8 is able to cause repiratory illness. Other
strains of the influenza A virus are responsible for causing infections in birds, horses, pigs and people.
Canine influenza only affects dogs.
How contagious is canine influenza?
Just like human "flu", canine influenza is highly contagious. In fact, unless a dog has already had
the illness and recovered, virtually every dog exposed to the virus will become infected. This is
because the virus is relatively new, and dogs have no natural immunity to it. While 100% of dogs
are susceptible to influenza infections, about 80% of infected dogs will show signs of infection.
Dogs that do not show signs of the disease can still spread the virus to other dogs.
Since 2003, there have been numerous reports of influenza outbreaks in veterinary clinics, kennels,
and shelters. Some of these outbreaks were traced back to the presence of one sick dog that spread
the virus throughout the facility and infected many other dogs.
What are the signs of canine influenza?
The most common sign of canine influenza is a persistent cough. Some dogs have a soft, moist,
productive cough, while others have a dry cough similar to that seen in dogs with kennel cough -- a
respiratory condition that is caused by any of a number of other viruses and bacteria. It's this similarity
to kennel cough that makes it hard for your veterinarian to diagnose which illness your dog has.
About 80% of dogs who show signs of influenza will have mild disease. Signs in this case include a
low-grade fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy, loss of appetite, and a cough that can last for up
to a month.
How is canine influenza infection diagnosed?
It's hard to diagnose canine influenza. Many times it can be confused with kennel cough because the
signs are very similar. Often canine influenza is not suspected until the illness becomes unusually severe
or lasts an unusually long time. Laboratory tests may not confirm canine influenza infection because the
samples must be taken at the appropriate time in the course of your dog's illness. If your dog has a history
of being exposed to other dogs with canine influenza, it is reasonable to suspect that your dog has
something more than ordinary kennel cough.
Is your dog at risk for infection?
Most dogs, regardless of breed or age, are at risk for canine influenza. However, certain venues and
activities can raise your dog's risk of canine influenza infection even higher. Review this list of questions
to see if any of these places or activities apply to your pet.
Does your dog:
*come from a shelter, rescue center, breeding kennel, or pet store?
*Board at a kennel or go to doggie daycare?
*Attend group training or "dog kindergarten"?
*Visit a groomer, dog parks, or engage with other dogs on daily walks?
*Enter dog events?
*Come in to contact with other dogs in the waiting room during visits to your veterinary clinic?
How is canine influenza spread?
Canine influenza spreads the same way that human flu spreads -- through direct contact (kissing, licking
nuzzling); through the air (coughing or sneezing); and via contaminated surfaces (such as when a person
picks up the virus on their hands or clothing, then touches or pets a dog). Spread can also occur if that
same person touches and contaminates another surface -- a doorknob, for example.
What can be done if my dog becomes infected?
There is currently no specific treatment for canine influenza. As with all viral illnesses, the disease must run its course. Supportive care, such as providing a good diet and making sure your dog's body has enough fluids, can help your dog fight the infection. A little extra tender loving care can also go a long way.
Sometimes canine influenza infections can become complicated by secondary bacterial infections. One sign of this is a yellow-green, thick nasal discharge, which your veterinarian may treat with an antibiotic. The coughing that comes with influenza is moist and productive, you should not try to stop it with a cough suppressant. Human "flu" medicines should not be given to your dog because they have not been studied or approved for use in dogs with canine influenza.
How can I protect my dog from canine influenza?
Protection starts by keeping your dog in good general health. A well-nourished, well-rested, and well-cared-for pet will have stronger immune system to help fight off infection. When you must board your pet, make sure the facility is clean and well-maintained.
Recently, a new canine influenza vaccine, the first of its kind, was approved for use in the US. Canine Influenza Vaccine, H3N8 from Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health has been clinically proven to significantly reduce the severity of influenza and the length of time that a dog is sick. The initial vaccination requires 2 doses, 2 to 4 weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination. If your dog is presently being vaccinated for kennel cough (Bordetella), it is a likely candidate for Canine Influenza Vaccine, H3N8.
Your veterinarian can advise you whether this new influenza vaccine should be added to your dog's vaccination schedule.
You may find it helpful to explore these websites for more information:
www.doginfluenza.com
www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp
www.sheltermedicine.com/portal/is_canine_influenza_update.shtml
www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-canine-flu-question-and-answer.html
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