What is canine influenza?
Canine influenza, or dog flu, is similar to the flu that effects humans but this can only infect dogs. This is not a new virus and has been seen in Asia and USA. Canada has not seen canine flu until now. Canine flu was brought to Canada from an American based rescue group from South Korea. Canine flu is not a zoonotic disease which means humans are unable to contract the virus.
Are my dogs at risk?
Just like with the human flu, canine flu can spread easily. Dogs that have are social and have a lot of nose-to-nose contact are most at risk. It is important to socialize your dogs with dogs that you know that are in good health. Owners can also spread canine flu by touching a dog or item that is contaminated with the virus.
What are symptoms I need to look for?
Symptoms include:
-coughing
-sneezing
-fever
-rapid/difficult breathing
-loss of appetite
-lethargy
If your dog experiences any of these contact your local veterinarian immediately.
Canine flu is currently isolated in Canada as the dogs have been quarantined and treated. If you plan on traveling with your pet or traveling to areas that have canine flu, make sure to have the proper vaccines and wash your hands frequently before coming home to your pets.