
Healthline.com
1. Chicken soup...effective for reducing the symptoms of upper respiratory infections...
2. Ginger...may help soothe a cough or sore throat...
3. Honey...has a variety of antibacterial and antimicrobial properties...
4. Garlic...contains the compound allicin, which may have antimicrobial properties...
5. Echinacea...
6. Vitamin C...
7. Probiotics...
Learn More...Top10homeremedies.com
1. Take Plenty of Rest...
2. Increase Your Fluid Intake...
3. Rinse with Saline Solution...
4. Inhale Steam...
5. Drink Broth and Soup...
6. Install a Humidifier in Your Room...
7. Gargle with Saltwater...
8. Take Probiotics...
Learn More...Medicalnewstoday.com
1. Zinc...prevents rhinovirus, the virus that causes the common cold, from replicating in the body...
2. Honey...has antimicrobial properties...
3. Echinacea...help prevent colds and relieve nasal symptoms...
4. Garlic...antibacterial...
5. Menthol...
6. Vitamin D...
7. Oregano oil...
Learn More...Does your dog need a flu shot?
Your dog probably doesn’t need a flu shot, but if you’re concerned, talk to your veterinarian. If your dog is considered to be at a high risk for serious injury from the flu, your veterinarian may recommend the vaccine. Just like with people, some dogs are at a higher risk for contracting the flu. These are: dogs who go to doggie day care
How to treat dog flu?
Keep an eye out for the following symptoms year-round:
- Coughing (both moist and dry)
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Purulent nasal discharge
- Runny eyes
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
What are the symptoms of canine flu?
Canine Flu Symptoms May Include: Persistent cough; Nasal discharge – not just your dog’s normal wet nose; Fever; Eye discharge – look for goopy, mucus-like discharge or a noticeable increase if your dog normally has eye discharge; Reduced appetite; Reduced activity, lethargy
Do dogs need a flu shot?
The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that dogs that are in frequent contact with other dogs be vaccinated against canine influenza to help prevent the spread.

How can I treat my dogs flu at home?
Home Remedies for Dog FluProvide soft, strong-smelling foods. ... Make sure they have plenty of fresh water. ... Make sure your dog is comfortable. ... Keep your dog's face clean. ... Vaccinate your dog. ... Wash your hands after touching other dogs. ... Isolate your dog.
How long does canine flu last?
2 to 3 weeksMost dogs recover within 2 to 3 weeks. However, some dogs may develop secondary bacterial infections which may lead to more severe illness and pneumonia. Anyone with concerns about their pet's health, or whose pet is showing signs of canine influenza, should contact their veterinarian.
What do you feed a dog with the flu?
A sick dog may not have much interest in eating, but it is important for your dog to keep their strength up. If your dog will not eat, try warming some wet or canned food and offering it to them. The dog may allow you to hand-feed them or may be interested in eating their favorite treats.
Can canine influenza go away on its own?
Symptoms and Types of Canine Influenza In most cases, the symptoms will last 10 to 30 days and usually will go away on their own. It's similar to kennel cough but persists longer. These dogs may benefit from dog flu treatment to reduce the duration or severity of symptoms.
How can u tell if a dog is running a fever?
The most common symptoms of a fever in dogs are:Loss of appetite.Shivering.Panting.Red or glassy-looking eyes.Warm ears and/or nose.Runny nose.Decreased energy.Coughing.More items...•
How do you get rid of a dog's fever?
Contact the emergency veterinarian nearest you right away. To reduce fever in dogs, apply a towel or cloth soaked in cool water to your dog's ears and paws and run a fan near your dog. Stop applying the water when your dog's temperature drops below 103 F.
Is paracetamol safe for dogs?
Paracetamol is a very popular painkiller in humans but it can be toxic or fatal in small animals. Dogs are less sensitive to paracetamol than cats. A 20 kilogram dog would need to ingest over seven 500mg tablets in order to suffer toxic effects. In cats, one 250mg paracetamol tablet could be fatal.
What human medicine can I give my dog for a cold?
Cough medications such as dextromethorphan (Robitussin) and guaifenesin (Mucinex) are sometimes used in pets, but should only be used as recommended by your vet.
Is milk good for dogs when they are sick?
A few tablespoons of cow's milk or goat's milk on an occasional basis can be a nice reward for your dog without the side effects of overindulgence. But, you should probably hold off on offering your dog an entire bowl in one sitting, as it can cause unpleasant reactions, including diarrhea, vomiting, and loose stools.
Is there a vaccine for the canine flu?
Vaccines are available for both H3N8 and H3N2 canine influenza. A bivalent vaccine offering protection against both strains is also available. Currently, there are no canine influenza vaccines approved for use in cats. Vaccination can reduce the risk of a dog contracting canine influenza.
How is canine influenza detected?
Appropriate Samples for DetectionAt present the most reliable way to diagnose canine influenza virus infections is by serological tests. ... At present, the most reliable way to directly detect the virus is through a PCR test on either swabs (nasal swabs preferred) or respiratory tissue.More items...
How can you tell if a dog has the flu?
The signs are those of a nasty upper respiratory tract infection and include fever, coughing, sneezing, runny eyes, and nose. Your vet can make a d...
Can you give your dog the flu?
No. The strain of flu virus that causes infection in dogs is a mutated horse virus. It is extremely infectious between dogs, but there is no eviden...
Is there a vaccine for the dog flu?
Yes. There is an effective vaccine against both forms of dog flu. This is given by subcutaneous injection. It protects against flu and is best give...
How does the dog flu spread?
Canine flu is thought to spread mainly among dogs through respiratory droplets produced during coughing and sneezing from infected dogs, or through contact with contaminated surfaces .
What was the cause of the 2004 dog flu?
An investigation showed that this respiratory illness was caused by equine influenza A (H3N8) viruses.
What would happen if there were evidence that canine influenza viruses were able to infect people with the potential for
If there were evidence that canine influenza viruses were able to infect people with the potential for sustained human to human spread, CDC would execute its existing authorities to limit the introduction and/or spread of that pandemic strain either into or within the U.S.
What is the difference between a dog flu virus and a dog flu virus?
There are two different influenza A dog flu viruses: one is an H3N8 virus and the other is an H3N2 virus. Canine influenza A (H3N2) viruses are different from seasonal influenza A (H3N2) viruses that spread annually in people.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from a bacterial infection?
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. Anyone with concerns about their pet’s health, or whose pet is showing signs of canine influenza, should contact their veterinarian.
Can H3N8 be spread to dogs?
Canine influenza H3N8 viruses originated in horses, spread to dogs, and can now spread between dogs. H3N8 equine influenza (horse flu) viruses have been known to exist in horses for more than 40 years. In 2004, cases of an unknown respiratory illness in dogs (initially greyhounds) were reported in the United States.
Is H3N8 a dog virus?
This is now considered a dog-specific, or canine, H3N8 virus . In September 2005, this virus was identified by experts as a “ newly emerging pathogen in the dog population ” in the United States. It has now been detected in dogs across much of the United States. Canine influenza H3N2 viruses originated in birds, spread to dogs, ...
How to help a dog with flu?
2. Give your dog fluids. The vet may offer your dog extra fluids, sometimes via an IV, if your dog has become dehydrated as a result of fighting off canine influenza. If the dehydration is only mild, encouraging your dog to drink more water orally may be sufficient.
What is the dog flu?
The dog flu (medically termed canine influenza) is an infection that can be passed from dog to dog. If your dog has come down with this flu, it is best to see a veterinarian for formal diagnosis and treatment. Treatment normally consists of a combination of rest, hydration, and sometimes medications (both for symptom management, ...
Why do vets give dogs antibiotics?
Although canine influenza is a viral infection, many veterinarians will offer your dog antibiotics in order to prevent what is called a "secondary bacterial infection.". What this means is that, while your dog's immune system is busy fighting off the virus, it can become weakened and susceptible to bacterial infections.
How to keep a dog from getting sores in bed?
Keep your dog's eyes and nose clean. Wipe these areas down with a cotton pad soaked in water that has been boiled, then cooled to room temperature. Make sure your dog's bed has plenty of padding. If your dog isn't moving very much, they can develop bed sores. Provide additional padding with a few extra blankets.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from a bacterial infection?
If your dog is otherwise healthy, they should recover after about a week.
What to do if your dog is sick and won't eat?
If your dog will not eat, try warming some wet or canned food and offering it to them. The dog may allow you to hand-feed them or may be interested in eating their favorite treats.
What is the best way to keep a dog from getting a virus?
Supportive care is basically a combination of symptom management and rest, so that your dog's immune system is optimized and best able to fight off the virus. Your dog's immune system is the only thing that can actually fight off the bug itself. Keep your dog's eyes and nose clean.
How to treat dog flu?
The severe form of dog flu needs to be treated aggressively with a broad spectrum of dog antibiotics, fluids and supportive care. Hospitalization may be necessary until the dog is stable. For some dogs, canine influenza is deadly and should always be treated as a serious disease.
What to do if my dog has the flu?
If your dog develops the signs of dog flu described when there is an outbreak in your region, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Often, local news will warn of an outbreak of the dog flu. However, if your dog travels or comes into contact with dogs who travel, call your veterinarian about your dog’s symptoms in case your dog is ...
Why does my dog cough up blood?
The canine influenza virus affects the capillaries in the lungs, so the dog may cough up blood and have trouble breathing if there is bleeding into the air sacs. Patients may also develop secondary bacterial infections, including bacterial pneumonia, which can further complicate the situation.
How long does it take for a dog to cough?
Dogs that are infected with the canine influenza virus may develop two different syndromes: 1 Mild – These dogs will have a cough that is typically moist and can have nasal discharge. Occasionally, it will be more of a dry cough. In most cases, the symptoms will last 10 to 30 days and usually will go away on their own. It’s similar to kennel cough but persists longer. These dogs may benefit from dog flu treatment to reduce the duration or severity of symptoms. 2 Severe – Generally, these dogs have a high fever (above 104 degrees Fahrenheit) and develop signs very quickly. Pneumonia can develop. The canine influenza virus affects the capillaries in the lungs, so the dog may cough up blood and have trouble breathing if there is bleeding into the air sacs. Patients may also develop secondary bacterial infections, including bacterial pneumonia, which can further complicate the situation.
What are the symptoms of a dog with the flu?
Dogs that are infected with the canine influenza virus may develop two different syndromes: Mild – These dogs will have a cough that is typically moist and can have nasal discharge. Occasionally , it will be more of a dry cough.
How long does dog flu last?
In most cases, the symptoms will last 10 to 30 days and usually will go away on their own. It’s similar to kennel cough but persists longer. These dogs may benefit from dog flu treatment to reduce the duration or severity of symptoms.
How long does it take for a dog to get tested for influenza?
In most cases, a blood sample is taken after initial symptoms develop and then again two to three weeks later. Because of this, your dog will be treated based on the signs she is showing.
How long does the flu last in dogs?
The most common clinical sign associated with canine influenza is a cough that does not respond to antibiotic or cough suppressant therapy, and lasts 10-21 days.
How does the canine flu spread?
The canine influenza virus is easy to transmit. CIV is spread through respiratory secretions (e.g., sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge) and contaminated objects such as kennel walls and floors, food and water bowls, collars and leashes, and on the clothing and skin of people who come in contact with infected dogs.
What is the CIV in dogs?
Canine influenza virus (CIV) is primarily the result of two influenza strains: H3N8 from an equine origin and H3N2 from an avian origin. Both of these strains were previously known to infect species other than dogs, but are now able to infect and spread among dogs. The H3N8 equine influenza virus has been recognized in horses for more than 40 years.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from pneumonia?
Most dogs fully recover from canine influenza within 2 to 3 weeks. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment.
Why is it important to feed dogs?
Good nutrition and husbandry is crucial in ensuring that dogs mount an adequate immune response and can help promote faster recovery . Dogs affected with a mild form of canine influenza will often develop a secondary bacterial upper respiratory infection.
How many dogs die from H3N8?
The disease was discovered by Dr. Cynda Crawford from the University of Florida and she estimated that the H3N8 strain kills between 1% and 5% of dogs that contract it, with most of the deaths being in dogs that have serious concurrent illnesses. That’s nothing to sneeze at.
Is H3N8 lethal to dogs?
At first, veterinarians thought the H3N8 canine flu would be quite lethal. Fortunately, like the human flu virus, it kills very few healthy individuals. Since its detection in 2004, H3N8 canine influenza has been detected in most states.
Etiology, Epidemiology, and Transmission
Two strains of the canine influenza virus (CIV) have been identified, H3N8 and H3N2. The H3N8 strain was first identified in the USA in 2004, and the H3N2 strain was identified only in Asia until 2015, when an outbreak occurred in the USA. Outbreaks are most common when dogs are in close contact, eg, kennels, shelters, dog parks.
Clinical Findings and Diagnosis
Most exposed dogs (80%) develop mild infection, with a cough that persists 1–3 wk and may be similar to the cough of canine infectious tracheobronchitis (see Tracheobronchitis in Small Animals Tracheobronchitis in Small Animals Tracheobronchitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the trachea and bronchial airways; it may be primary or secondary depending on the etiologic agent.
Treatment, Prevention, and Control
Treatment is largely supportive; most dogs recover in 2–3 wk. Additional treatment (eg, antimicrobials, NSAIDs) is warranted to combat secondary bacterial infection, pneumonia, and other complications.
Can Dogs Get The Flu?
The answer is yes, but canine influenza is different than human influenza. Although the symptoms can look similar, the influenza viruses that cause the infections are completely different strains.
What Is Dog Flu?
Dog flu is a common term to describe a contagious upper respiratory infection in dogs caused by the canine influenza virus. Unlike the human influenza, dog flu is not seasonal and can be contracted at any point in the year. 1
How Dog Flu Is Diagnosed
Canine influenza cannot be diagnosed based on symptoms alone, since the signs mimic many other conditions. In order to properly diagnose the presence of influenza virus, your vet will need to conduct tests to detect and identify which virus your dog may be infected with.
How To Treat Dog Flu
There are currently no antiviral agents approved to treat canine influenza. Your vet may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help control fever and inflammation in the nasal passages and throat. If your dog develops a secondary bacterial infection, your vet will prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection.
How to Prevent Dog Flu
Since canine influenza is highly contagious, it’s important to take necessary precautionary steps to prevent it from spreading.
So, Do Dogs Need a Flu Shot?
As recommended, discussion with your veterinarian regarding vaccination for influenza is warranted, especially in the previously mentioned higher risk groups.
Can Dogs Die From the Flu?
Though dogs can die of the flu, as in humans, most do not, though many will require veterinary attention. The signs of influenza are usually: lethargy, fever, decrease in appetite, cough, runny eyes/nose, possibly vomiting. Worsening signs are the development of pneumonia.
Minimizing the Risk of Canine Influenza
Here is some additional information about the canine influenza virus and tips for how to minimize the risk and reduce the spread of the disease:
Symptoms of Canine Influenza
Dry, hacking cough (similar to kennel cough but can progress to a moist, congested cough)
Preventing Canine Influenza
The best prevention is vaccination. There is now a single vaccination to prevent both the H3N2 and H3N8 strains of the virus. The vaccination requires a booster shot two weeks after the initial vaccine. Vaccines take 3-4 weeks to provide immunity.
Dog Flu Treatment
Treatment of canine influenza virus requires veterinary assistance. If you believe your dog may have canine influenza virus, contact your veterinarian immediately. Untreated, the illness may progress to pneumonia or other, more serious problems.
