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Canine influenza is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by a “flu” virus H3N8. This virus causes respiratory illness specifically in dogs. Currently, 30 states have reported canine influenza, including Alabama. 

Just like human “flu”, canine influenza is highly contagious. Because this is a new virus, dogs have no natural immunity to it! Virtually every dog exposed to the virus will become infected and about 80% of infected dogs will show signs of the infection. It is spread 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.) 

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. Signs also include a low-grade fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy, loss of appetite, and a cough that can last for up to a month. In 20% of the cases, more severe signs will occur, such as a high fever (104-106 degrees F) and pneumonia. A small number of dogs infected with the virus have died from complications associated with the disease.

Canine Influenza is hard to diagnose. Blood collections and nasal swabs can be falsely negative due to the timing of the samples and the stage of disease. If your dog has a history of being exposed to other dogs with the possibility of Canine influenza, it is reasonable of suspect your dog has something more than ordinary kennel cough.

Certain activities can raise your dog’s risk of infection even higher. Any dog that came from a shelter, breeding kennel, pet store, or attends a boarding facility, doggy daycare, or groomer is at higher risk.

Currently there is no specific treatment plans, except supportive care such as good diet , lots of rest and maintaining good hydration to help your dog’s body fight the infection. If the disease becomes complicated with second bacterial infections your dog may be giving antibiotics.

Recently, a new canine influenza vaccine-the first of its kind- was approved for use in the US. The vaccine has been clinically proven to significantly reduce the severity of the influenza and the length of time that a dog is sick. The initial vaccination requires 2 doses, 3 weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination. We can advise you whether this new influenza vaccine should be added to your dog’s vaccination schedule.