MCDH warns of canine flu in pets, urges protection

McHENRY COUNTY — McHenry County Animal Control is encouraging dog owners to protect their pets and prevent the spread of canine influenza after the virus was identified in McHenry County pets in January.

Canine influenza, also known as canine flu or dog flu, is a contagious respiratory disease that easily spreads among dogs. Almost all dogs are susceptible to dog flu infection, and virus infection tends to spread among dogs housed in kennels and shelters.

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, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is no evidence of spread of canine influenza viruses from dogs to people, but the virus, though rare, can spread to cats.

While not all dogs with canine flu will show symptoms of the virus, some may experience:

• Cough
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Lack of energy
• Eye discharge
• Poor or loss of appetite

Pet owners whose dog shows symptoms of canine flu or other respiratory diseases should not expose their animal to other dogs or cats. Most dogs recover within two to three weeks after infection, but some dogs may develop secondary bacterial infections that can 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.

“When given the right condition where dogs are in contact with other dogs, whether that be at a dog park, a kennel, animal shelter, the vet’s office or even at a grooming facility, canine flu can quickly spread,” said Maryellen Howell, MCDH’s Director of Animal Control. “People whose dogs are in contact with other animals should speak with their veterinarian about getting their dog protected and vaccinated against canine flu.”

A two-dose vaccine to protect dogs against the two common variants of canine flu found in the United States, H3N8 and H3N2, is available. Veterinarians can recommend whether the vaccine is right for your pet and provide additional information about the vaccine.

More information about canine flu is available on the CDC’s website.