Guarding Against Canine Influenza All Year Long

With most cases occurring between December and March, it’s definitely flu season for humans. Canine influenza, however, is a year-round risk. Considered a lifestyle-associated disease, highly-contagious canine influenza is passed between dogs in high-risk environments, such as dog parks, training classes, boarding facilities, and daycares. Know how to protect your pup with our go-to guide to this disease.

Two Strains

There are two types of canine influenza found in the United States: H3N8 and H3N2. Originally thought to be an equine influenza, H3N8 jumped from horses to racing greyhounds in Florida in 2004. In March 2015, Chicago-area dogs contracted the H3N2 strain that is thought to have originated in Asia as an avian influenza virus. 

Evidence strongly suggests that canine influenza strains cannot infect humans, but may be able to transfer to cats. 

Reducing Exposure Risks

The best way to prevent canine influenza is to limit your dog’s exposure to infected dogs. As symptoms include coughing, sneezing, and barking, canine influenza is transmitted via airborne droplets. Transmission can also occur through shared objects, like water bowls or toys. Close contact at groomers, day cares, kennels, and dog parks increases risk. 

If you know or suspect you or your dog was exposed to canine influenza, take extra precautions to disinfect shared objects, wash hands, and thoroughly wash clothing. The virus can live on surfaces for 48 hours, clothing for a full day, and on hands for 12 hours. About 80% of dogs exposed to canine influenza get sick with the disease. Approximately 20% of exposed dogs do not show clinical signs, but spread the virus to others. 

Incubation Periods

Symptoms of the H3N8 strains typically surface around 2-3 days after exposure, while the H3N2 takes between 2-8 days for symptoms to occur. Dogs are highly contagious during these incubation periods, despite not showing symptoms. 

The virus causes an inflammatory response that results in a secondary bacterial infection. Coughing and nasal discharge can mirror symptoms of kennel cough, or Bordetella bronchiseptica. 

Supporting Your Dog

If your dog tests positive for a strain of canine influenza, they may have symptoms that last between 10 and 21 days. Treatment with cough suppressants and antibiotics can decrease the severity of symptoms. You may notice:

• A wet or dry cough 
• Discharge from the nose and/or eyes
• Sneezing
• Drowsiness and lethargy
• Inappetance
• Fever

A comfortable and supportive place to rest is crucial to their recovery, as well as hydration and nutritional support, and anti-inflammatories. Infected dogs should be isolated from other household pets for 4 weeks. 

Canine Influenza Vaccination

If your dog’s lifestyle puts them at risk of contracting canine influenza, you can opt to have them vaccinated against both strains. While the vaccine does not prevent potential infection, it can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. 
We can help you make the best health care decisions for your dog. Please call us at (615) 356-8993 with any questions or concerns. The Urban Pet is always here for you.