Does Your Dog Have Canine Influenza?
Did you know that dogs can get the flu too? No, I’m not talking about the same flu you or I can get, but about a Type A virus that’s currently being referred to as Canine Influenza Virus.
What is Canine Influenza Virus?
Canine Influenza Virus, otherwise known as CIV or H3N8, is a a virus that infects a dogs respiratory system and is proven to be highly contagious, amongst dogs.
However, DON’T PANIC! There has not been ONE (1) reported case of CIV being transmitted to humans.
How can you tell if your dog is infected?
Signs of CIV are similar to Kennel Cough.
- sneezing
- coughing
- fever
- loss of appetite
- lethargic
- nasal discharge
- red or runny/weepy eyes
If you suspect your dog is sick and may have the flu:
- Immediately isolate the dog from other dogs and animals.
- Contact your Vet and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
There are a series of tests, including blood work, that can be used to see if the virus (CIV) is actually present.
Treatment of Canine Influenza Virus is similar to that of humans.
- medications, to include antibiotics
- plenty of fluids, to keep them hydrated
- rest
- isolation from other dogs and animals
Where can you find more information on CIV?
- First stop, your Veterinarian.
- One of my favorites, VeterinaryPartner.com. This site is highly recommended by my own Vet.
- CDC Centers for Disease control and Prevention, Key Facts about Canine Innfluenza (Dog Flu)
Brenda Lee is a contributor here and blogs at PibblesNMe about her dog Titan.
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Thanks for having me Lisa and Ken! It made me do a little research which I am now thankful for. Unfortunately, now I think my Titan is showing all the symptoms. Funny how the mind can play tricks on ya.
Bren Lee recently posted..Dog Flu?
We are so glad to have you Bren. We thought it would be nice to learn about dogs and the flu since the flu is such a hot topic and at an epidemic level now. Thank you!
Hey Bren,
Thanks for sharing this with all of us who are furparents. Looks like all my furbabies are okay, thankfully.
Also appreciate the links you shared, I’m definitely bookmarking it in case I ever need it.
Hope you’re having a great day!
Corina Ramos recently posted..The Top 5 Work from Home Distractions
Hi Corina! Those sites are my favs! I’ve referred to them a lot of the past couple years. It’s always something.
Glad to see you here! Thanks for sharing
Bren Lee recently posted..Special Announcement from P&M!
In the part of the world I live in there is an outbreak now, but there’s some epidemic people influenza going around. That won’t affect the dogs, so we’re safe.
Good to see you on here, Bren!
JanBierens recently posted..How to get Great Blogging Ideas
Sorry about your outbreak Jan. We have it happening in my very own state, with already a few fatalities. I’m glad neither is transferable from human to do or vice versa. Thanks for stopping by!
Brenda recently posted..Dog Flu?
Bren,
This is great information. Hope your dog is feeling better.
Cynthia recently posted..Are You Cheating In Your Relationship?
Hi Cynthia and thanks for sharing! Titan is good to go. Knock on wood, he won’t get this blasted flu!
Bren Lee recently posted..Special Announcement from P&M!