Understanding Canine Flu: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

When the weather shifts unexpectedly, pets can suffer just as much as people. Canine flu, a contagious respiratory infection in dogs, can strike at any time of the year. It’s important for dog owners to recognise the symptoms and know how to protect their pets.

Canine flu, also called dog flu or canine influenza virus (CIV), is caused by influenza A viruses, mainly the H3N8 and H3N2 strains. The H3N8 strain originated from horses and affected dogs such as racing greyhounds, while H3N2 came from birds and also infects dogs globally. This virus spreads through respiratory droplets when infected dogs cough, sneeze, or bark, and through contaminated objects like water bowls, collars, and bedding.

Recognising Canine Flu Symptoms

Dogs infected with canine flu often show clear signs, making it easier to identify. Common symptoms include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. You might also notice your dog losing appetite and developing a high fever as the illness progresses. Breathlessness and respiratory distress are serious warning signs that require prompt veterinary attention as untreated canine flu can lead to pneumonia.

• Cough
• Fever
• Runny nose
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Respiratory infection

If you see any of these symptoms lasting more than two days, it’s crucial to take your dog to the vet. This also helps prevent passing the virus to other dogs at home or in kennels by isolating your pet and disinfecting shared items thoroughly.

Treatment and Care

There is no direct cure for canine flu, but veterinary care focuses on supportive treatment. Vets commonly prescribe a course of antibiotics to help prevent secondary bacterial infections, and your dog should be kept hydrated and rested in a calm, warm environment. In severe cases, fluid therapy at a veterinary clinic may be necessary to ensure adequate hydration.

With proper care, most dogs recover within two to three weeks. However, if left untreated, complications such as pneumonia can become life-threatening. Early veterinary intervention is key to a good outcome.

Preventing Canine Flu Infection

Preventing the spread of canine flu involves managing your dog's interactions and hygiene. Here are essential precautions:

• Avoid crowded dog parks or high-traffic walking areas during outbreaks.
• Do not share toys, bowls, or bedding with other dogs.
• Ensure grooming salons maintain proper ventilation and hygiene, or request mobile grooming services.
• Regularly wash your hands before and after handling your dog.
• Keep your dog's water bowl clean and filled with fresh water.
• If boarding your dog, confirm the kennel follows strict infection control protocols.

Dogs with flat, brachycephalic faces like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs are considered more vulnerable to severe symptoms and may benefit most from vaccination.

Canine Flu Vaccination

Vaccines are available against the H3N8 and H3N2 canine flu strains and typically involve two injections given several weeks apart. Vaccination is recommended for dogs at higher risk due to frequent socialisation or boarding. It is a preventative measure and not a treatment if your dog is already infected.

If your dog is frequently in contact with other dogs or enters kennels, speak to your vet about vaccination. Some kennels may require proof of canine flu vaccination before accepting dogs for boarding.

When to Visit the Vet

If your dog has symptoms like coughing, runny nose, fever, or lethargy for more than two days, schedule a vet visit promptly. Early diagnosis helps prevent serious complications and controls viral spread to other dogs.

The vet may perform tests to confirm canine influenza and provide supportive care recommendations to aid your dog’s recovery.

Conclusion

Canine flu is a highly contagious but preventable respiratory disease in dogs. Recognising symptoms early, practising good hygiene, avoiding high-risk situations, and considering vaccination can protect your pet effectively. Always consult your vet if you suspect canine flu to ensure the best care and to prevent spread within dog communities.