It is unlikely that a healthy, adult, pet dog will develop the severe and deadly form of canine influenza virus.
Overall, canine influenza is no more a threat to your dog than an infection from Bordetella (the bacteria associated with “kennel cough”). While it’s true that about 80% of all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected, the vast majority of these experience mild symptoms similar to a human head cold which resolve with simple supportive care. About 20% of those dogs exposed will clear the infection without any signs of illness.
Infected dogs may develop such clinical signs as coughing, sneezing, lethargy, decreased appetite, fever and a runny nose.
Often mild symptoms such as coughing and sneezing can resolve themselves after just a few days. If treatment is warranted, then supportive care consisting of antibiotics, and possibly intravenous fluids and hospitalization, would be indicated. A very small percentage of dogs can develop pneumonia, which requires more aggressive therapy.
How is canine influenza spread?
Canine influenza is very easily spread from dog to dog. An infected dog can spread the virus for a day or so before acting sick. This makes it very difficult to prevent and stop outbreaks. Anything the dog coughs on or licks (bowls, blankets, toys etc) might also spread infection. People can accidentally spread canine flu when they touch an infected dog and then touch other dogs or objects before washing their hands.
What dogs are at risk?
Shelter dogs and racing greyhounds are at a greater risk of contracting the severe form of canine influenza, due to the close proximity of their crates and the increased stress levels these dogs experience. This also applies to dogs staying at a boarding kennel or participating in dog shows. As with human flu, the very young or very old are also at increased risk.
In its severe form, canine influenza is characterized by a rapid onset of hemorrhagic pneumonia with high fevers, difficulty breathing and coughing up blood. In these cases death can occur within four to six hours of presentation. Again, it is rare that a healthy, adult, pet dog will develop the severe form of this viral infection. It is important to remember that, even in these very high-risk populations, the mortality rate is only 5-8%. That means that almost all dogs affected do recover with treatment.
Can I prevent my dog from getting the flu?
You can help protect your dog with these simple preventive steps:
- At the dog park or doggie day care, avoid any contact with dogs that are coughing and sneezing.
- Keep a watchful eye out: If your dog starts coughing or sneezing and acting lethargic, see your veterinarian to discuss diagnostic and treatment options.
- If your dog shows any of these upper respiratory signs, limit your dog’s socializing — steer clear of the dog park and doggie day care until these symptoms are gone to avoid exposing other dogs.
- If you anticipate boarding your dog, you may want to consider vaccinating, especially if your dog has underlying issues, is very young or is a “senior citizen.”
Should my dog be vaccinated?
If you anticipate boarding your dog, you may want to consider vaccinating, especially if your dog has underlying issues, is very young or is a “senior citizen”. These dogs are at greater risk.
Be aware that the vaccine may not prevent your pet from becoming infected if exposed to the virus. However, it has been shown that the vaccination will reduce the severity of clinical signs.
Given these facts, we feel that if your dog is in a high risk group, strong consideration should be given to vaccinating against canine influenza.
If I choose to vaccinate, how soon should it be done before my dog is near other dogs?
If you decide vaccinate, please note that the vaccine requires two initial vaccinations, 2 – 4 weeks apart, to establish protection. Significant protection is likely not established until 7-10 days after the second immunization. Therefore, you must plan ahead for the vaccine to provide any preventative effect.
If you expect to board your dog(s) regularly, and you choose to vaccinate against influenza, you might consider adding it to your dog’s annual vaccine protocol. Because we will be evaluating each dog’s potential risk individually, be sure to discuss this with the veterinarian.