Canine Influenza: What You Need to Know

6/20/23: Richmond Animal League has been informed of several suspected or confirmed cases of Canine Influenza (CIV H3N2) in the Richmond area. For information about how our Loving Spay+Neuter Clinic works to prevent the spread of infectious diseases like CIV please click here.

What is Canine Influenza?

Canine influenza, also known as dog flu, is a contagious respiratory disease caused by specific strains of Type A influenza viruses that infect dogs. Similar to human influenza, different strains of the virus exist, with two strains, H3N8 and H3N2, identified in dogs. This blog aims to shed light on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of canine influenza, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to safeguard our furry companions.

Understanding Canine Influenza:

Canine influenza is highly contagious and is most commonly transmitted when dogs are in close proximity to one another, such as in kennels, shelters, and dog parks. The virus is primarily spread through respiratory secretions transferred by coughing, sneezing, or barking. Contaminated objects and human contact with infected dogs can also contribute to the spread of the virus as it survives on surfaces (kennel surfaces, food/water bowls, collars/ leashes, toys, beds) for 12 to 24 hours. It is easily killed by handwashing with soap and water, normal laundering of clothing and bedding, and washing food/water bowls and toys with soap and water. The incubation period is 1 - 5 days after exposure, and dogs are most contagious 2 - 4 days after infection. Around 20% of infected dogs can still transmit the virus without displaying symptoms.

Recognizing the Signs:

Upon exposure to the virus, approximately 80% of dogs develop a mild respiratory infection characterized by a cough lasting 1 - 3 weeks. The cough may resemble "kennel cough," with a harsh, dry cough followed by gagging. Other symptoms include discharge from the eyes and nose, sneezing, fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. While most dogs recover within a few weeks, severe cases may lead to high fever, pneumonia, and secondary bacterial infections. However, the mortality rate for H3N2 is low.

What Should I Do if My Dog Has Symptoms?

First, your dog may have a respiratory infection caused by other respiratory viruses and not H3N2 CIV. This can only be determined by a diagnostic test performed by your veterinarian.

• Call your veterinarian. Do not go to the clinic without calling first. Your dog may have a very contagious infection that can easily spread to other dogs in the clinic.

• Tell the veterinarian the following information:

  • Your dog’s symptoms and when they started.

  • If your dog has been to a boarding facility, dog daycare, dog park, groomer, or an event with other dogs within the past week.

  • If your dog was around coughing dogs in the past week.

• Your veterinarian will provide instructions on when and how to see your dog.

• Talk with your veterinarian about testing your dog to determine if they have the flu or another respiratory illness.

Diagnosing Canine Influenza:

Veterinarians diagnose canine influenza by collecting samples via a throat swab. If a dog has been sick for over a week, there are blood tests that can be done. Both types of tests require laboratory analysis, and results can take several days to come back.

Treatment and Prevention:

Currently, no specific treatment exists for canine influenza. Supportive care is provided to help affected dogs while their immune system fights off the infection. Dogs with complications like pneumonia or secondary bacterial infections may require antibiotics or other medications. Vaccines are available to prevent canine influenza, and it is crucial for facilities housing groups of dogs to implement good hygiene practices, infection control measures, and the use of disinfectants to minimize the spread of the virus. No evidence suggests that canine influenza can be transmitted from dogs to humans.

Canine influenza, caused by specific Type A influenza viruses, poses a threat to dogs, particularly in close-contact environments. Understanding the signs, transmission routes, and appropriate diagnostic and preventive measures is crucial for safeguarding our canine companions. We can help protect our beloved dogs from the impact of canine influenza and ensure their well-being through responsible pet ownership, timely veterinary intervention, and adherence to recommended hygiene practices.

Resources:

Centers for Disease Control: Key Facts about Canine Influenza (Dog Flu)

University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine: Canine Influenza Facts for Pet Owners and Veterinarians

More information about Canine Influenza on our Blog.