We are coming into flu season, and many people don’t realize that pets can get influenza, too. Dogs can become infected with H3N8 influenza (horse flu) or H3N2 canine influenza virus (CIV). Dogs with CIV can spread the virus for up to 20 days. The H3N2 form was identified in the early 2000s and is thought to originate in Asia. It is different from human and swine flu.
CIV is spread most easily in crowded environments such as shelters, boarding centers, grooming facilities and sometimes dog parks. Infection can occur within a few hours of exposure and shedding of the virus within 24 hours of exposure. The symptoms of the virus can be seen within 2 to 5 days of infection. The most common signs of infection are coughing, decreased appetite, a fever, lethargy and possibly a nasal discharge and sneezing. In severe cases, dogs can get pneumonia and have difficulty breathing.
Most cases show normal blood test results. The white blood cell count and the chemistry testing are usually normal. The best way to diagnose this infection involves taking swabs from the back of the throat, which may require some sedation. Radiographs of the chest are sometimes taken. Checking your pet’s vitamin D level is usually a good idea, too.
The basic treatment is that of supportive care – giving fluid therapy, anti-nausea medication, nebulization breathing treatments, and in some cases, oxygen administration. Antibiotics will not help kill the virus but are sometimes given to try to prevent a secondary bacterial infection. There are no studies so far in regard to treatment using ivermectin as in humans.
Cats can get the “flu,” but it is different – usually caused by feline calicivirus or herpesvirus.
The good news is that the canine flu is usually not severe, and the incidence is very low. We do not consider the canine influenza vaccination part of the regular core vaccinations. There is also no evidence of the spread of canine influenza viruses from dogs to people. At our hospital, we have not confirmed any cases of influenza, and I have not vaccinated my dogs for this. But if your pet has any coughing and is lethargic, contact your veterinarian. Whatever the problem is, it’s best to get answers.
Here’s to a happy fall season for your pet!
Dr. Ron Resnick has been in practice for more than 32 years and previously operated two veterinary hospitals. He taught at Harvard University and graduated from Tufts University, considered the best veterinary school in the world. He operates an animal hospital in Simi Valley.
