Protect Your Dog from the Canine Flu

With the spread of the human H1N1 flu virus, most people seem to be focusing on how they can prevent the flu from entering their homes. However, few have taken the time to consider the deadly risks of the latest flu strain to affect dogs: the H3N8 virus.

Canine influenza was first identified in U.S. dogs in 2004 after an outbreak of respiratory disease in racing Greyhounds in Florida. Since then, it has continued to spread and has been detected in dogs in 30 states and the District of Columbia.

Primarily affecting dogs in shelters, kennels, doggie day care centers, and other public areas, the dog flu manifests itself like many other common flu strains by causing symptoms like coughing, runny nose, and fever, however it cannot be spread to humans. In older or weaker dogs, the flu can prove deadly, however, there are options for treatment both before and after your dog gets sick.

If you suspect that your dog has contracted the flu, be sure to visit your veterinarian. In addition, if you’re worried about your dog becoming infected, you can also talk to your vet about getting your pet vaccinated.

In the meantime, as flu season runs its course, be cautious about utilizing doggie day cares, dog parks, and boarding facilities. These are some of the most common areas for dogs to spread the virus and it’s better to be safe than sorry until flu season passes. In addition, be sure that your dog’s immune system is getting a boost by supplementing his diet with nutrient products like Dinovite and by making sure that he’s get enough exercise, fluids, and regular grooming.