Saturday, April 18, 2015


***** Dog Flu is Gaining Ground *****
Yes, your dog can catch a flu from other dogs. Identified as H3N2, the dog flu is highly contagious and currently making more than 1100 dogs sick in the midwest. The flu has also been reported in cats. H3N2 has never been seen before in North America.
How it spreads: H3N2 can live on surfaces and can be carried on clothing and shoes. It can pass from pet to pet by a simple sneeze, cough or nose to nose contact.
Symptoms: Very similar to human influenza including lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, nasal discharge, coughing and sneezing.
NOT all dogs show symptoms. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia. Six dogs have died in the Chicago area. Cases have also been reported in Wisconsin, Ohio and Indiana.
H3N2 virus cannot be transmitted to humans. It is believed that the dog flu virus originated in Asia from viruses circulating in live bird markets, then spreading to dogs.

Areas of concern for potential outbreaks are dog parks, kennels, and doggie day care facilities. If your dog shows any symptoms see your veterinarian immediately.