Canine Influenza PDF Print E-mail
Written by Jackie Yedesko (LVT)   

    Canine Influenza (H3N8) is a relatively new virus in the dog community that is highly contagious. It is most prevalent in areas with groups of dogs i.e. kennels, grooming facilities, doggie day cares, dog parks, etc. This virus has been reported in about 30 states, and is only contracted by dogs. (1) This article will help you identify different signs that your dog may have the virus, as well as how you can keep your dog protected.

 
    Because the Canine Influenza virus is new, dogs don't already have the antibodies to protect themselves against it. For this reason, 100% of dogs are susceptible to contracting the virus. Although 100% of dogs are susceptible, only 80% will show clinical signs. (1) So that means that the other 20% do not show any signs, but may still be carrying the disease and can still spread it. However, if the dog is going to show clinical signs, they can take anywhere from 2-8 days after contracting the virus to show these signs. (2) This is what makes this disease so highly contagious. There are different clinical signs associated with the virus including: a moist "productive" cough, lethargy, low-grade fever, nasal discharge, and loss of appetite. In more severe cases (20%) , signs can include high fever and pneumonia. (1) These signs are very similar to kennel cough (bordatella) which also makes this harder to diagnose.  Not only can it be transmitted from direct contact with an infected dog, but also from contaminated surfaces, hands, or clothing, and air (via cough or sneeze) (1)
 
    There is a way to help protect your dog, just like you would protect yourself from contracting the flu. There is a Canine Influenza vaccine that is being offered at our clinic. It can be started at 6-8 weeks of age, requires 1 booster 2-4 weeks  apart, and then is given yearly. If you get your dog vaccinated against bordatella (Kennel Cough), it is a good idea to consider getting the Canine Influenza vaccine as well. Please contact our office for questions, or to schedule your dog to get started on the vaccine. 
 
 
 
 
 
 *References:
1. Intervet/Schring-Plough Animal Health. Canine Influenza: What do I need to know? 2009  Available at Holly Tree Animal Hospital.
2. Canine influenza. The Center for Food Security & Public Health. College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University. Available at: http://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/Factsheets/pdfs/canine_influenza.pdf. Updated January 13, 2009. Accessed November 30, 2009.