Just like humans, your dog can catch the flu. For Canine’s, influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that in some dogs can be mild. While in other dogs, can be life threatening. Let’s dive into what symptoms to look out for, understanding how the flu can progress, and when to consider a vaccine for your pet!
What is Canine Influenza?
Similar to the flu in humans, canine flu is a viral infection that can spread easily from dog to dog. Especially when your dog is in close contact with other animals such as at dog parks, the groomers, and kennels, this is when spreading of the virus could occur. It’s common for dogs to recover on their own. But others might need medical attention.
Symptoms to Watch For
What’s helpful about canine flu is that the symptoms are very similar to what we might experience when we have the flu. Here are some of the most common warning signs to pay attention to:
- Mucus or drainage around the nose
- A wet cough
- Lethargy or low energy
- Loss of appetite
For some dogs, the symptoms can be mild. When mild cases occur, it’s common for your dog to be back to feeling their best within 5-7 days. But for other dogs, the flu can become very serious. It can even lead to life threatening conditions or complications.
It’s important to note that age, breed, and sex don’t determine how severely a dog might be affected by the flu. For example, your old dog with preexisting conditions might only get a mild case while your young puppy might become very ill.
Is the Canine Flu Vaccine Right For Your Dog?
If you’re determining whether the canine flu vaccine is right for your dog, you must consider their lifestyle and risk factors. It can be especially helpful for your dog to receive a vaccine if they are around other dogs frequently. Or, if they are headed to a boarding facility, the dog park, or you just know they will be in contact with lots of other dogs.
When You Should Call Us
If you notice that your dog is experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to continue to monitor them. But, you should call us if:
- Symptoms worsen or persist beyond a week
- Your dog has difficulty breathing
- Your dog seems extra tired
- They refuse to eat or drink
With the right information you can tackle the flu season and keep your dog happy and healthy. If you have any questions about your pet’s health or wellness during this time of year, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
