How to recognise the symptoms of canine flu
Canine flu is not always heard of, but your dog can catch this virus just the same as a human. The type of flu virus that your dog can come in contact with is similar to equine flu first found in horses, and has now spread to many breeds of dogs.
The symptoms are easily recognisable. For example, your dog will show signs of breathlessness, which if left untreated can turn to pneumonia.
Sometimes the symptoms can vary, a mild attack of flu can start off as a cough and your dog will have a runny nose, however the more serious symptoms of flu can include a high fever.
It is important to take your dog to the vets, especially if you have more than one dog as it is highly contagious.
One of the ways canine flu can affect other dogs is through contact with their toys, chews and even their food. Everything that a dog comes in contact with would have to be washed, or renewed.
A vet will give your dog antibiotics to help support his immune system; a dog owner’s job would be to give his pet plenty of fluids to stop the infection spreading through his body. Any appointments with a dog groomer would have to be cancelled to avoid the bacteria affecting other dogs.
There is no real cure for canine flu, but the disease should pass in time. Your vet will tend to your dog’s healthcare with antibiotics and give advice on how to help your dog. Do not worry though, as very few dogs actually die from canine flu.
