CANINE INFLUENZA

CANINE INFLUENZA

Canine influenza (CI, or dog flu) is caused by the canine 

influenza virus (CIV), an influenza A virus.

IT IS HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS AND EASILY SPREAD FROM INFECTED DOGS TO OTHER DOGS BY: 

1. DIRECT CONTACT

1. NASAL SECRETIONS (THROUGH BARKING, COUGHING OR SNEEZING) 

1. CONTAMINATED OBJECTS (KENNEL SURFACES, FOOD AND WATER BOWLS, COLLARS AND LEASHES)

1. BY PEOPLE MOVING BETWEEN INFECTED AND UNINFECTED DOGS​

SYMPTOMS: The symptoms of a CIV infection resemble those of canine infectious tracheobronchitis ("kennel cough"). ​

1. Develop a persistent cough 

1. May develop a thick nasal discharge 

1. Fever (often 104-105oF) 

1. ​Lethargy (tired)

1. Eye discharge

1. Reduced Appetite

Dogs of any breed, age, sex or health status are at risk of infection when exposed to the virus.

Canine influenza infections can cause mild to severe illness in dogs. Some infected dogs may not show any signs of illness, but can still be contagious and able to infect other dogs

Canine influenza can occur year round. So far, there is no evidence that canine influenza infects people.

Most dogs recover within 2-3 weeks. However, some dogs may develop secondary bacterial infections which may lead to more severe illness and pneumonia. Anyone with concerns about their pet’s health, or whose pet is showing signs of canine influenza, should contact their veterinarian.

Consult your veterinarian for more information regarding testing for CIV.

COURTESY OF AVMA.ORG WEBSITE. CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO READ MORE ABOUT CANINE INFLUENZA.

https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/CanineInfluenza.aspx

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/canineflu/keyfacts.htm