Canine Influenza, commonly known as dog flu, is another highly contagious virus that attacks a dog’s respiratory system. There are two kinds of Canine Influenza: H3N8 and H3N2. Influenza H3N8 was a common disease in horses for over 40 years, it was not until 2007 that America had their first canine influenza H3N8 reported case. Influenza H3N2, originated from birds, and was not reported in dogs until 2015, but has now been found in over 30 states in America.
Canine Influenza is spread through airborne droplets where another infected dog has coughed, sneezed or licked. This includes food, water, toys and other dogs’ feces. The symptoms are similar to what we experience in humans; fever, cough, runny nose and eyes, lethargy and loss of appetite. In more severe cases it can lead to pneumonia. Canine Influenza is only fatal in severe cases and has a total mortality rate of about 10%. We believe that percentage is significantly reduced for dog’s who receive an excellent diet and care like we advocate for at Wise Woofs. Dogs showing signs of the flu should be taken to the Veterinarians to ensure they are properly cared for. It’s important to note that canine influenza can be spread to cats as well. If you’re suspicious your dog is sick with the flu and have other furry family members, be sure to clean surfaces often and keep them separated while recovering.
Just like people, dogs can receive a flu shot annually if requested. Beyond protecting our dogs, vaccines also control the virus from evolving; that is what made it possible to spread to dogs in the first place. Both strain vaccines, H3N8 and H3N2, are killed vaccines, however, there is a H3N2 vaccine that fights protection against both strains. Both Influenza H3N8 and N3N2 are considered non-core vaccines because this new strain is mainly in North America. As a U.S. based company, Wise Woof took note of this to dig up more research on what states canine influenza is commonly found. H3N2 is more contagious than H3N8, ideally if at risk, they should be vaccinated for both.
There is a combination vaccine in the market that uses antigens, foreign substances that trigger a response from the body, as well as live versions of distemper, adenovirus-2, parvo and influenza. While this seems to be a four birds one stone type of situation, you should titer test for all four antibodies prior to giving a combination vaccine to ensure the safest path for your dog.
