Everything You Need To Know About Dog Flu
May 13, 2018
Mounting fears of an epidemic of canine flu spreading across Canada has many dog owners freaking out. So we thought we’d lay your fears to rest by shedding some light on this deadly virus.
How did the canine flu strain H3N2 spread to Canada?
In recent months, many dogs have been rescued from South Korea that were slated for human consumption. It is these rescue dogs that have brought the H3N2 strain of canine flu into the country. The virus has been isolated to two dogs in particular that arrived in Windsor-Essex County. These dogs have now been quarantined and vaccinated against the flu.
However, several more arrivals from Asia have brought many more cases of the H3N2 virus to Ontario, particularly in the communities of Grimsby, Orillia, Bracebridge and Gravenhurst. Reports say that more than 100 dogs are infected.
What are the symptoms of dog flu?
Just like human flu, symptoms don’t present themselves within the first few days and can go easily undetected. But dogs are still highly contagious during this incubation period. When symptoms present themselves, you can expect to see fever, coughing, runny noses and eyes, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
Can humans catch dog flu?
Humans cannot contract the H3N2 virus but they can help to spread the flu by coming into contact with infected dogs. The virus is highly contagious and can also spread through food bowls, toys, and other shared doggie items.
Another strain of dog influenza called H3N8 has also been reported in the States, but hasn’t yet spread to Canada.
Canine influenza is very rare in Canada and officials say this is the first reported case in this country.
Can I vaccinate my dog against canine flu?
Vaccinations are available for both H3N2 and H3N8. Veterinarians recommend that dog owners living in the affected communities mentioned above get their dogs immunized to help prevent the spread of this outbreak. Vets also warn dog owners in this area to avoid dog parks and to keep your dogs away from other canines for a full month.
To find out more about canine flu, you can read the full Veterinary Advisory from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs by clicking here.
Photo by Vitto Dema - Sweet Realx