Winter colds are not fun! It feels even worse when our innocent pups come down with sniffles too. HICC PET™ covers frequently asked questions about dog flu and ways to treat and prevent your puppies from getting sick this winter. Browse our online site for pet wellness products that fight flu-causing bacteria, allergies, and skin irritations.
What Is Dog Flu?
Dog Flu, also known, Canine Influenza, is a contagious respiratory virus affecting dogs of any type or age. It comes from two strains of the influenza virus (H3N8 and H3N2) commonly found in domestic or household dogs. The scariest thing about dog flu is how fast it spreads and how much it may affect our pets. Luckily, there are many at-home and veterinary treatment options to calm symptoms before they get worse.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Dog Flu?
Dog flu symptoms range from:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Lethargy
- No appetite
These symptoms vary from mild to severe. Some dogs show no signs of illness, while others show symptoms within 2-4 days. A proper diagnosis from a vet is a guaranteed way to tell if your dog is sick. Learn more about pet cleansing methods to reduce the chance of your pup getting sick.
How Does Dog Flu Spread?
Dog flu is highly contagious. It spreads through close contact with other dogs, from coughing, sneezing, or infected areas. Dogs that live in kennels or adoption shelters are most at risk. No dog is immune to the flu. It’s essential to check your dog regularly, whether it’s a rescue dog or during the winter months.
What Times of the Year Is Dog Flu Most Common?
Studies show that dog flu is more than a seasonal illness. Although dog flu is expected during the winter and spring, outbreaks happen all year round.
Can Dog Flu Spread to Cats?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been reports of the influenza strain H3N2 being transferred from dogs to cats. With this in mind, your cat could rarely contract the virus. For optimal safety, keep all infected animals apart from each other in your home. If your dog or cat spends time outside, keep up with their hygiene. Use pet cleansing wipes to remove dirt in the paws or coat-carrying bacteria.
Can Dog Flu Spread to Humans?
There is no evidence that dog flu can spread to humans. It is rare but likely that other animals can get infected. It is best to keep different animal species separate from each other if one has an illness. Thoroughly wash your hands before and after touching infected pets to prevent spreading to other animals.
