Canine Flu

Canine flu is a highly contagious viral infection. According to experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, it's caused by the Influenza Virus A subtype H3N8, which is different from the strain found in humans. Mild type canine flu symptoms include a cough, a lot of like that of 'kennel cough', and a runny nose with thick nasal discharge. It is normal to have clear or whitish nasal drainage or mucous. Keep an eye out if the drainage begins to turn yellow gold or green, as this could be a sign of a simple dog flu turning into pneumonia. The severe kind contains canine flu symptoms that include a high fever and symptoms of the early stages of pneumonia. Virtually all dogs exposed to the canine influenza virus become infected; about 80 percent develop a flu-like illness, while another 20 percent do not become ill. Fortunately, most dogs recover within two weeks without any further health complications. However, some dogs progress to pneumonia, which is usually due to secondary bacterial infections. 


There are many home remedies to get rid of the dog flu as quickly as possible. If your dog is running a low grade fever and his nose is warm to the touch, provide a cool compress to the abdomen or give him a tepid bath. Be sure to dry the dog thoroughly to prevent chilling. A dog with canine flu needs plenty of rest. He should be fed a nutritious diet and encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to keep him thoroughly hydrated and to aid recovery. Since the dog's ability to smell may be affected by the illness, warming his food may encourage eating. Use eucalyptus treatments as an inhalant for the respiratory system and bear in mind that proper sanitation remains important to ward off infection and disease. His bedding, toys and food and water bowls should be cleaned and disinfected to completely eliminate the bacteria. He should be kept away from other dogs to prevent the virus from spreading.  

If your dog's symptoms seem to be getting worse, make an appointment with your vet for an exam. Because influenza symptoms are similar to those of other viral and bacterial pathogens common in canine infectious respiratory disease complex, in order to make a definitive diagnosis your vet will need to test for either viral shedding or the existence of serum antibodies.