Canine influenza virus (CIV) causes respiratory infections in dogs. The first case of CIV, strain H3N8, was reported in 2004, but recently a second strain, referred to as H3N2, has surfaced with confirmed cases in several states.

Symptoms

Since the disease is relatively new, most animals exposed to CIV have no build-up of natural immunity which makes them susceptible to the virus. Most dogs that are exposed will develop a mild case of CIV, but some may become very sick. It is important to be vigilant of CIV disease outbreaks in your area.  If they occur,  contact your veterinarian right away should your pet show signs of infection.

Watch for:

• Coughing
• One of the main symptoms
• Occurs because the animal is trying to expel the mucus in their lungs
• May start as a dry cough, but change to coughing up sputum
• May last for several weeks
• Sneezing and runny nose
• Common symptom
• Runny nose discharge may be clear at first, but then change to thick and yellow or pink-tinged
• Diarrhea
• If this happens, it may have a consistency similar to gravy or water.
• If blood is seen, consult your veterinarian immediately.
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Dehydration
• Loss of appetite
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• In mild cases. a dog will often have a low-grade fever (up to 103° F).
• In severe cases, high fever may develop (104 to 106° F).
• Pneumonia
• If pet reaches this stage:
• Animal will need treatment that only a veterinarian can provide.
• If left untreated, the chance for recovery is greatly reduced.

Knowing the behavior and personality of your pet can be of great benefit when watching for the warning signs that point to an infection, as 80% of the CIV-diagnosed animals typically exhibit symptoms. If you notice changes in your pet’s disposition or daily routine, you might be detecting the onset of illness.

How the Virus Spreads

CIV is very contagious and can infect a dog of any age or breed. The virus occurs year-round and spreads in the following ways:

• Airborne
• Virus particles pass in the air from an infected dog to your dog through a cough or a sneeze, for example.
• Physical contact
• Virus is passed from an infected dog to your dog when, for instance, they touch noses in greeting.
• Virus particles are passed when your dog comes into contact with items touched by an infected dog, such as a water bowl or a toy.
• Human contact
• People who have been in contact with an infected animal and then touched your healthy dog before they have washed their hands thoroughly or changed their clothing can also pass on the virus.

Reducing Chances for Exposure

There are precautions to take that will minimize the risks for infection, such as:

• Avoiding locations with higher chances for exposure:
• Boarding facilities, shelters, veterinary clinics, breeding kennels, pet stores, doggie day cares, dog kindergartens, training facilities, grooming clinics, dog parks, and dog events.
• If your pet has been to one of these locations, monitor them closely for any symptoms of CIV.
• Be proactive:
• Pay attention to your pet’s surroundings.
• Ask if any animals have been diagnosed or if any have been exposed to dogs known to have/have had the flu or kennel cough.
• Watch for signs that could indicate a respiratory illness in any of the dogs your pet is around.
• Before going to the veterinarian:
• If you think your dog has CIV, ask if there are special procedures to follow upon arrival at the clinic that will limit your pet’s contact with other dogs.
• If your pet is diagnosed with CIV:
• Discuss with your veterinarian the steps to follow that will limit the spread of infection to other animals.

Treatment

At this moment, there is avaccine approved for use against the H3N8 strain of CIV.  It is also being recommended for use in animals diagnosed with the newer H3N2 strain. Your veterinarian will be able to inform you about this vaccination option to help protect your pet against CIV.

For any other questions regarding the canine influenza virus, please contact your Covetrus representative at 855.724.3461