Did you know your dog can get the flu, too? Canine influenza is relatively new — the first strain was reported in 2004 in racing greyhounds and was spread from horses to dogs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A second strain developed in the United States in 2015 and is thought to have originated with birds. So far, dog flu has been reported in forty-six states. Only North Dakota, Nebraska, Alaska and Hawaii have had no reports of dog flu, reports Merck Animal Health.
A dog with the flu can feel as miserable as you when you're under the weather. Canine flu symptoms include sneezing, fever and discharge from your poor pooch's eyes or nose. Your dog might also develop a cough that could last as long as a month. While your dog can get very sick from the flu, the chances of death are low.
Fortunately, canines and humans cannot spread the flu to each other. Unfortunately, dogs can spread it among each other easily. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends dogs that have the flu be isolated from other dogs for four weeks.
Tasty Tips
Dog Flu Treatment & Prevention: Vaccines for At-Risk Dogs
Vaccines are available that help protect against canine influenza strains. The vaccine works by preventing an infection in most cases or reducing the severity and duration of the illness, according to the AVMA.
Unlike a rabies and parvovirus vaccine, for instance, the vaccine against canine flu is considered a "lifestyle" or "non-core" vaccine. It's only recommended by the CDC in cases where dogs are socially active, meaning if they travel frequently, board with other dogs, attend dog shows or frequent dog parks.
The vaccination is recommended for dogs that are socially active because the virus is spread through direct contact, or through nasal secretions (which can happen when a dog is barking, coughing, or sneezing), and from contaminated surfaces (including food and water bowls and leashes). A person who is in contact with an infected dog may unintentionally expose another dog by spreading the virus through contact.
"Dogs that may benefit from canine influenza vaccination include those that receive the kennel cough (Bordetella/parainfluenza) vaccine, because the risk groups are similar," according to an AVMA report. Merck Animal Health, which created the USDA-approved vaccine Nobivac Canine Flu Bivalent, reports 25% of pet care facilities now require dogs to have the canine flu vaccine.
The Animal Hospital of North Asheville explains that the vaccine is administered in a series of two vaccinations given two to three weeks apart in the first year, and then requires an annual booster shot. It can be given to dogs 7 weeks of age and older.
Think your dog should get vaccinated against canine flu? Your first step is to consult your veterinarian to determine your dog's risk of exposure to the canine influenza virus and to determine if a vaccination against canine flu is the right choice for your four-legged family member. Also, with any vaccine, make sure to continue to monitor your dog after receiving the vaccine to ensure there are no adverse affects that should be reported to the vet.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult Entrée Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Chicken & Potato Recipe dog food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free dry dog food is gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Hearty Vegetables and Tuna Stew Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws 7+ dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Beef Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Beef recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Entrée Can Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Related articles
How to Keep Dogs Active in Winter
How to Keep Dogs Active in Winter
Can Dogs Actually Get Hiccups?
Can Dogs Get Hiccups?
Dealing With a Dog Peeing on the Lawn
Discover why dead spots in your green lawn could be caused by dog urine, and learn steps you can take for getting your lawn (& dog) back into shape.
Knowing the Life Stages of Your Large Dog
Determine the human year equivalent of your large or giant breed dog as their size plays a much larger role in their aging than smaller dogs.
Why Is My Dog Afraid of the Dark?
Discover common reasons why your dog seems afraid of the dark, including things like separation anxiety & traumas, and how to help reduce their fears.
Preventing Growth Disorders in Dogs
Reduce the chances of your puppy developing a growth disorder by discovering the issues that cause this dog disease and taking steps to combat it.
Assessing the Proper Nutrition Your Adult Dog Needs
Different dogs at different ages and life stages have different nutritional needs. Learn about the unique nutritional and health needs of your dog.
How to Choose the Right Size & Type of Dog Crate
Deciding the best crate size isn't always straightforward. Learn factors to consider when choosing the size & type to get, including your dog's age & size.
Can Dogs Drink Pool Water?
Learn facts and precautions about dogs and drinking pool water, including what types are most hazardous and what to do if your dog drinks too much.
Helping a New Dog's Anxiety After Coming Home
Anxiety can be a problem for dogs, especially ones new to your family. Learn how common anxiety symptoms like diarrhea can happen & how to help them relax.
Tips for Helping Senior & Older Dogs in Winter & Snow
Learn how to help senior dogs navigate cold winters and snowy weather, including how long to leave them outside & walking tips.
Dog Bitten by a Snake? Clinical Symptoms & What You Should Do
Learn about snake bites on dogs, including clinical symptoms to look for, what to do if you think your dog was bitten, and treatment & prevention options.
Dogs & Cold Weather: How Long Can My Dog Be Outside?
Why is My Dog Chasing Their Tail?
Learn why your dog can get overly excited about chasing his tail, including common reasons like boredom & parasites, and how you can help them stop.
Managing Megaesophagus in Dogs
Learn about megaesophagus in dogs, how it makes digestion difficult & impacts your dog's health, and tips for helping you manage this condition.
Newborn Puppy Care: 5 Things You Need to Know
Learn five essential tips to help you care for your newborn puppies, including how to keep them warm, nursing advice and more.
Why Does My Dog Sigh?
Why Do Dogs Sigh?
Excessive Thirst in Dogs: Common Causes & When to See the Vet
Discover the many conditions that cause excessive thirst in dogs, from simple dehydration to more serious issues, and learn when you should visit the vet.
Blood in Dog Urine: What Should You Do?
Learn the details about blood in your dog's urine, if it's a serious condition, the common urinary causes and how your veterinarian might treat it.
Cleaning Your Dog's Paws: Tips for Success
Learn how to clean dog paws so you can keep them clear of muck and debris and promote paw health. Your pup's paws are made to explore.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.