People cannot contract the flu from their dogs but they can spread the virus from one dog to another by fomites. Fomites are vehicles that allow a virus to be transmitted including clothing, water bowls, and toys. The most common way a dog becomes infected with the virus is from being around other dogs that have it. Most of our cases are seen after close contact at doggie daycares, boarding facilities and the dog parks. Because of this, more facilities are requiring the flu vaccine be given prior to admission. Pfizer Inc. has a vaccine available that will help lessen the severity of the flu but it is not 100% at preventing infection. The first time the vaccine is given, a booster must be administered 2-3 weeks later. After that, the vaccine is given every 12 months.
It's hard to ask our dog patients what they are feeling when we believe they have the flu but common signs include an ongoing cough and nasal discharge. In some severe cases we will see fever and difficulty breathing. While we usually base our diagnosis on clinical signs, confirmatory tests include a nasal swab or blood test that is submitted to a lab.
The dog flu only affects about 5-8% of the dog population. As with the human flu virus, our biggest concern when a dog contracts the flu is that secondary bacterial infections will form in the lungs and cause a serious pneumonia. The flu doesn't discriminate; all breeds and ages of dogs are susceptible.
My dogs are not vaccinated for the canine flu because they are at very low risk to contract it. I do not take them to work with me very often, we use a house sitter when I am out of town and we do not go to the dog parks. But every case is different and you should talk to your veterinarian about your dog's activities and decide if they should receive the vaccine.
