What is the dog flu you may ask?
Dog flu, better known to veterinarians as canine influenza virus, is a viral infectious disease of the respiratory system in dogs. Just like humans, the virus is spread airborne. Your dog can catch this virus from other dogs coughing, sneezing, and barking. The virus can also be caught through sharing of water bowls, toys, and even other humans who have touched an infected dog.
Another important point to remember is that dogs who show no signs of influenza, may be in the incubation period of the virus and can still pass it on to others. This lasts around 2-4 days. Symptoms to watch out for are coughing, sneezing, wheezing, fever, runny eyes, nasal discharge, and lethargy. It looks similar to kennel cough, but is much more severe! In some cases, this can cause pneumonia, and even death.
Stay safe and get your pets vaccinated! Here at Parkgate Animal Hospital, we offer a combination vaccine which covers two strains of canine influenza.
Living on the North Shore, I’m sure many of you dog owners take your pet for walks, hikes, trips to the dog park and groomers. We would love to meet your pet, and keep them vaccinated and safe against viruses.
