Everyone knows
that the flu season can be tough on humans of all ages. However, did you
realize that dogs can suffer from the flu, too? Canine influenza is a disease
that can affect your furry friends, and it can help to learn about the disease
to make sure you help prevent your dog from getting it or to treat him properly
should he get sick. Here is some helpful info that you should know about canine
influenza.
Canine
influenza is the canine flu or dog flu. It is a highly contagious disease
that can give your dog terrible flu
symptoms, like coughing, fever, lethargy, runny nose and eyes and more. The
canine flu presents itself a lot like the flu does in humans, and it is a
mainly respiratory-focused virus.
Much like the
human flu, dog flu is spread by respiratory secretions like coughing and
sneezing. It can spread between dogs but it can also spread between species,
including humans. People can pick up dog flu from breathing in respiratory
secretions of dogs or by touching the secretions and then touching their eyes,
nose or mouth. Be sure to wash and disinfect all surfaces that your sick dog
has come in contact with if your dog contracts canine influenza.
Dogs can get flu
shots, too! Today, there are vaccines for two strains of dog flu: H3N8 and
H3N2. If you want your dog to get the flu shot, you can ask your vet. Your vet
should be able to give your dog a shot on a special visit, or when you go for a
routine visit (for a checkup, or to pick up meds like pimobendan for dogs). In
addition to getting your dog vaccinated, you can take the following steps:
Keep them away
from doggy daycares, dog parks and other places that dogs are.
Wash your hands
when you touch other dogs so you don't spread the disease to yourself or your
dog
Isolate any dog that
you think might have the dog flu so it does not spread to any other dogs
If your dog gets
a fever, seems lethargic, contracts a cough or gets any other symptoms of dog
flu, then you should take action right away. First, isolate the dog from other
dogs and animals. Then, disinfect surfaces he has come in contact with.
Contact
your vet for any helpful advice but most likely, the course of treatment
includes simply keeping your dog comfortable and supported at home. Ensure he
stays well hydrated and warm at home, and feed him a healthy diet. You can
expect the flu to last 10 to 30 days.
If your dog has
the flu, also make sure you protect yourself. When caring for him, wear gloves
and protective garments. Make sure you wash your hands and disinfect anything
that your dog comes in contact with and regularly take showers to ensure you're
not spreading any germs.
Canine influenza
is a disease that can make your dog sick. However, by arming yourself with the
knowledge of how the disease is contracted and treated, you can ensure that you
keep your dog safe and well.
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