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Cases of canine flu showing up in North Alabama

Local veterinarian shares what the canine flu is and tips for pet owners to help keep their furry friends safe.

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Just as the human flu is surging across the country, so is the dog flu.

Canine Influenza, also known as the H3N8 or H3N2 virus is showing up in some states and cases are now popping up in North Alabama.

Dr. Karen Sheppard, Director of Huntsville Animal Services explains, "it's mainly similar to the human flu and it causes some respiratory illness and can cause a lot of coughing and then unfortunately, it can cause severe pneumonia in some dogs. It tends to affect older dogs, compromised dogs, dogs that have other medical issues."

Other symptoms include runny nose, fever, and reduced appetite.

According to the CDC the H3N8 virus originated in horses and was first discovered in 2004.

And the H3N2 virus originated in birds and was later detected in the United States in 2015.

"Over time, the virus has gotten less damaging, just like what we experienced with COVID....there is a [Canine Influenza] vaccination and we would encourage people that own pets, especially if you're boarding them or going to take them to the dog park...It's always a great idea to get their Canine Influenza vaccination," Dr. Sheppard said.

She offers that recommendation because this dog flu is highly contagious, similar to how the human flu is to us.

"It spreads quickly...when they cough, you know, especially before they're really sick they're coughing a little and it's spreading."

In some cases, dogs can pass this flu to cats, although humans are not known to be at risk.

Animal experts recommend pet owners to get their dogs the Canine Influenza vaccine.

Which is an entirely different than the Bordetella vaccine, also known as "kennel cough."

And if your dog does contract the flu, "they usually are going to cough for up to 21 days and that's really alarming to a lot of pet owners," Dr. Sheppard said.

Most dogs make a full recovery as long as they rest and stay hydrated.

If you do suspect your pet is struggling to breathe, contact your vet immediately.

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