With so many people getting the flu this year are your pets at risk?
- Canine flu caused by different virus than human flu
- It's highly contagious
- Vets recommend dogs get vaccinated
Veterinarians say canine influenza is different virus than the human flu, but they have seen a few dog flu cases here in Florida. They say like humans, there is a flu shot for dogs to help keep them healthy.
Debbie O'Hair said she makes sure her dogs get a flu shot each year.
"I love them just like they're my children and I just would never be able to forgive myself if something happened to them because I neglected what I needed to do," O’Hair said.
Veterinarians say the current strains of canine influenza aren't usually fatal, but stress vaccinating your dogs is always a good idea.
"The two different types one is a little meaner if you're vaccinated to that type it's no meaner. If you've never had an immunity one type is going to be meaner than the other," said Dr. Barry Lee with Animal Emergency of Pasco.
Dr. Lee said they did see a small outbreak at his office in Pasco County in November. Fortunately, his dog Buddy did not get sick, he said thanks in part to the vaccine.
The American Veterinary Medical Association said canine influenza has only been around for about 13 years and is highly contagious. Some signs to watch for are similar to human symptoms including a runny nose, fatigue, and congestion.
Dr. Lee said canine influenza this year is not a pandemic like the human flu is right now, but stresses it is not too late to get your dog a flu shot especially if your pet spends a lot of time around other dogs.
"In a small area just like us it's hard to breathe cough etc. and not transmit the viruses because it can be transmitted by contact as well," Dr. Lee explained.
While Dr. Lee did say there isn't an outbreak across the state right now he stressed prevention is key.
Because the dog flu is a different virus than the human flu, the Veterinary Medical Association said dogs can’t get the human flu and vice versa. They also say there is no evidence of canine influenza being passed from dogs to other types of animals.