Canine Influenza- Frequently Asked Questions
Copyright © 2009 Lone Mountain Animal Hospital (originally posted 9/10/09, updated 10/9/09)

What is Canine Influenza?
Canine Influenza (H3N8) is a highly contagious respiratory virus in dogs that was first identified in 2004 in racing greyhounds in Florida.

Is this the same flu that people or pigs get?
The Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is an entirely different virus than the bird, swine, or human flu and has not affected people. The virus originally appears to have mutated from an equine strain of influenza.

How widespread is Canine Influenza?
Locally there have only been a few suspect cases at Dewey Veterinary Clinic. Prior to that, no cases of Canine Influenza have been reported in Las Vegas. The virus has spread to 30 states, but is still relatively uncommon in most pets.

What are the signs of Canine Influenza?
Symptoms will resemble those of kennel cough infections. Affected dogs may have a cough, thick nasal discharge, and high fever (up to 104-106). Signs of illness occur five to seven days after exposure to the virus. The cough can be persistent and last several weeks after infection.

How dangerous is this virus?
The good news is that majority of dogs are not at risk for becoming sick with Canine Influenza and most dogs infected with the virus will experience minimal respiratory signs. Complications of Canine Influenza may occur and lead to bronchopneumonia. The disease can be fatal for 5-8% of dogs infected with the disease.

What do I do if I am concerned my dog is showing signs?
Sick pets should be examined by their veterinarian and treated appropriately. Pet owners should not panic though, since only a few suspect cases of Canine Influenza have been seen locally and most cases are mild in nature. Also it is important to know that many other diseases cause these signs, so not every case of respiratory disease can be attributed to Canine Influenza.

Is there a simple test my veterinarian can do to check my dog for Canine Influenza?
There is not a simple, quick test for Canine Influenza which can be used for rapid diagnosis. However cultures and/or blood samples can be sent to a diagnostic laboratory if a diagnosis is needed.

What is done for dogs sick with suspected Canine Influenza?
Most dogs will recover from milder infections with supportive care, cough medications, and antibiotics. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections. Antiviral medications such as Tamiflu are not typically used in treatment of Canine Influenza.

What preventative steps can be taken?
Basic preventative steps for respiratory infectious disease include quarantining new or sick dogs, good hygiene with disinfection and hand washing, and avoiding unnecessary contact with other dogs. Dogs that are old, young, or have a compromised immune system are more susceptible to respiratory disease.

Is there a vaccine for Canine Influenza?
A new vaccine is available for Canine Influenza and has a conditional license by the USDA. The vaccine is believed to decrease the symptoms and helps control the disease spread. Widespread vaccination for Canine Influenza is not currently done in Las Vegas but may be considered for at-risk individuals. These include dogs that visit boarding facilities, doggie daycare, dog parks, veterinary offices, dog shows, or any group dog facilities.

Where can I get my dog vaccinated?
We are currently offering the Canine Influenza vaccine at Lone Mountain Animal Hospital. Initial vaccination is a series of two vaccines given 3 weeks apart. Vaccination is updated annually thereafter. The vaccination fee is $19.00.

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