Canine Influenza in Dogs

Canine Influenza in Dogs

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As shared by the County of Los Angeles Veterinary Public Health:

What is Canine Influenza?

Canine influenza (CIV) is a disease in dogs caused by an influenza virus. There are two influenza virus strains that can spread between dogs: H3N8 and H3N2. Both of them cause similar symptoms in dogs. Unlike Leptospirosis, neither of them are known to make people sick, but can affect cats.

Infected dogs start shedding the virus 2 days before the start of symptoms, and for at least 21 days or more afterward, even after they appear healthy.

What are the symptoms of Canine Influenza in dogs?

    • Fever
    • Lethargy
    • Coughing
    • Loss of appetite
    • Sneezing
    • Nasal discharge
    • Some dogs have no symptoms

    More severe and fatal cases of pneumonia resulting from infection with either strain canine influenza virus have been reported in dogs, but are rare. Most dogs with canine influenza recover in 2-3 weeks. Majority of pet owners think their dogs have kennel cough (as symptoms are very similar) even though their dogs are current on kennel cough vaccine.

    How is Canine Influenza spread?

    Canine influenza is spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions from infected dogs (e.g. coughing, sneezing), and by contact with contaminated objects (e.g. bedding, floors, bowls, collars, leashes). The virus is most likely to spread when an infected dog spends time close to other dogs, especially in indoor areas with little ventilation. The virus can survive for 1-2 days on floors or cages.

    What is the treatment for Canine Influenza in dogs?

    Veterinarians treat infected pets by administering oral antibiotics, appetite stimulants and anti-nausea medications, but do not bring pets you suspect are infected in for an exam unless instructed to do so.

    How can I protect my dog from Canine Influenza?

    1. Vaccinate your dog for Canine Influenza H3N2 before they enter boarding kennels, dog daycare, dog parks, or engage in dog group activities.  This vaccination is also advisable for dogs that may occasionally encounter other dogs. The vaccine has 2 initial boosters within 2-4 weeks and then annually thereafter.
    2. If your pet is showing symptoms, keep them away from other animals and contact your veterinarian immediately, but do not bring them in unless instructed to do so. Veterinary hospitals can struggle to shoulder the patient caseload requiring hospitalization with oxygen support.
    3. If your pet is sick, keep them at home for 28 days from the first day of illness — This will help to prevent your dog from spreading the disease to other dogs even after they are fully recovered.
    4. If your pet is asymptomatic but was exposed to other sick pets, keep them at home for 14 days to monitor for symptoms and then contact your vet if they become ill.
    5. To prevent the spread of disease, do not let a sick pet share its food bowl, leash, toys, or other supplies with other pets.
    6. Wash your hands after touching your pet.

    Read more at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/influenzacanineh3n2.htm

    Reporting Canine Influenza

    VETERINARIANS: Report a case of leptospirosis disease by using this form and email it in to vet@ph.lacounty.gov or fax to 213-481-2375.

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