Just as people take precautions to reduce their risk of catching the flu, now dog owners can protect their pets from the canine influenza virus (CIV).

The canine influenza virus was first identified in the United States in 2004 and has continued to spread throughout 30 states and the District of Columbia. Outbreaks have been reported in the Chicagoland area.

Most dogs, regardless of breed or age, are at risk for canine influenza. If your dog came from a shelter or rescue center, breeding kennel or pet store they may be at risk. If you board your dog at a kennel or go to doggy daycare they may be at risk. If your dog goes to the groomer, visits dog parks, enters dog events, attends obedience classes or engages with other dogs on your daily walk your pet may be at risk for canine influenza.

Canine influenza is highly contagious and virtually every dog that is exposed to it will become infected because the virus is relatively new and dogs have no natural immunity to it. Even though 100% of dogs are susceptible to the infection, about 80% of infected dogs will show signs of infection. Dogs that don’t show signs of the influenza can still spread the virus to other dogs.

Canine influenza is spread by direct contact such as drinking out of the same water dish as an infected dog, licking, kissing, or nuzzling. It can also be spread through the air by coughing or sneezing. The canine influenza virus can also be spread through touching contaminated surfaces by a person picking up the virus on their hands or clothing, then touching, or petting a dog. Spread can also occur when that same person touches and contaminates another surface, a doorknob, for example.

The signs to look for if your dog is infected with the influenza virus can include low-grade fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy, loss of appetite and a cough that can last for up to a month. There is currently no specific treatment for canine influenza. As with all viral illnesses, the disease must run its course. Supportive care, making sure your dog gets a healthy diet and making sure your dog’s body has enough fluids, can help your companion fight the infection.

If the canine influenza becomes complicated by a secondary infection your veterinarian may treat with an antibiotic. A sign of this is yellowish green, thick nasal discharge. The coughing that comes with influenza is the body’s way of getting rid of the virus. The cough may persist for 2 – 4 weeks.

At Loving Care Animal Clinic, we are recommending the CIV vaccine to pet owners, depending on their dog’s lifestyle. The vaccine consists of a series of two injections, given two to four weeks apart and then annually. For more information on the canine influenza virus or CIV vaccine, please call our office at (847)670-8488.