Do you care for your dog? Are you aware of dog flu outbreak? Do you know what to do to prevent your dog from this respiratory disease? Read this article to get well informed about dog flu!
What is Dog Flu?
Canine influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause your dog to get sick.
Canine influenza (also known as dog flu) is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by specific Type A influenza viruses known to infect dogs. These are called “canine influenza viruses.”
Symptoms Of Dog Flu
Coughing and sneezing are some of the main symptoms of canine influenza, and also one of the main forms of transmission. In some cases your pup will run a fever. The others includes:
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Eye discharge
- Reduced appetite
- Loss of energy
Dog Flu symptoms can last for 7-10 days or longer. The time between when your dog is infected and when it shows symptoms (the incubation period) is 2-4 days. If your dog is diagnosed, help prevent the virus from spreading by isolating your dog from other dogs and cats, and cleaning and disinfecting all areas, food bowls, water bowls, beds and toys that your dog comes in contact with.
How Long Does Dog Flu Last?
Most dogs recover within 2 to 3 weeks. However, some dogs may develop secondary bacterial infections which may lead to more severe illness and pneumonia.
How Can Dog Flu Be Prevented?
The best way to prevent your dog against canine influenza is to give them vaccine ,the earlier the best.
But, if your dog shows signs of illness or is diagnosed with Dog Flu, it’s important to be proactive about preventing the disease from spreading. The followings should be done to prevent your dog from dog flu;
1.Wash your hands after coming in contact with other dogs ,however, humans can’t contract dog influenza, they can spread it to other dogs by contact. Be sure to thoroughly wash your hands after petting or playing with other dogs.
2.If your dog displays flu-like symptoms, keep them isolated from other dogs until symptom-free to prevent the spread of the virus.
3.Keep your away from public whenever there is an outbreak of dog flu
How Does Dog Flu Spread?
Dog flu is airborne. Respiratory secretions escape into the environment in the form of coughing, barking, and sneezing, where they are then inhaled by a new canine host.
Almost all dogs are prone to canine flu infection. Canine flu mainly escalated among dogs through respiratory droplets produced during coughing and sneezing from infected dogs, or through contact with contaminated surfaces. Therefore, dog owners whose dogs are coughing or showing other signs of canine influenza should not expose their dog to other dogs or to cats. Your hands and environment should be cleaned and disinfected after exposure to dogs showing signs of canine influenza.
Treatment
If your dogs shows any of the above stated symptoms of this respiration disease , Do not hesitate to see a veterinary doctor. However, the follows should be of help ;
- Make sure they are hydrated: Hydration is essential to helping your dog recover. Ensure your dog has plenty of water available to drink throughout their recovery.
- Ensure your dog have a good and comfortable place to rest.
- Wash your hands often and keep your environment clean.
- Give them good foods.
Conclusion
When it comes to the dog flu, it’s important to know that most cases are not serious, the canine influenza virus can make your dog uncomfortably sick, causing your pup and you a lot of stress. If you are a dog owner, you don’t need to panic about the dog flu. However, familiarize yourself with the symptoms so that you know what to look for in the event of an outbreak in your area. It is advisable to see a veterinary doctor for further clarification
