How to tell if your dog has the flu?

If your dog has only mild ‘dog cold’ symptoms, is eating and drinking as normal and still seems to have the same energy levels, it’s usually no need for concern and they should go back to feeling normal within a few days to a week. If it appears to be more than a mild dog cold and they’re off their food, not drinking, obviously uncomfortable and/or having difficulty breathing, you should contact your vet straight away. Your vet will ask you about their dog flu or cold symptoms, do a full examination and may run some diagnostic tests to identify the cause of the problem. They might even snooze more than usual. This is normal as their body needs plenty of rest during this time. If your vet suspects it’s something serious, they’ll ask you about their dog flu or cold symptoms, do a full examination and may run some diagnostic tests to identify the cause of the problem.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dog Flu is essential for prompt and effective treatment. The most noticeable symptoms of dog flu are respiratory. Infected dogs typically develop a persistent cough that may be dry or wet and can last for several weeks, even with treatment. Alongside coughing, you might notice other distressing respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, a runny nose, and difficulty breathing. Nasal Discharge and Sneezing: In addition to coughing, nasal discharge is a common symptom of canine influenza. The discharge may be clear at first but can become thicker and more colored (yellow or greenish) as the infection progresses. A fever is a clear indicator that your dog’s body is fighting an infection. The normal body temperature for dogs ranges from 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dog’s temperature exceeds this range, it may be experiencing a fever due to the flu. Accompanying the fever, you might observe lethargy or an unusual lack of energy. Dogs with the flu often seem unusually tired and may show little interest in playing or walking. Another sign of dog flu is a decreased appetite. Dogs feeling unwell often lose interest in food, which can lead to weight loss if not addressed promptly. Canine influenza can also affect the eyes, leading to redness, swelling, and watery discharge. Dogs suffering from the flu might exhibit significant changes in behavior. This could include increased irritability or a noticeable decrease in interactive behaviors. Watch for signs like persistent cough, fever, and behavioral changes, and take action by consulting with our professionals at Pet Townsend Veterinary Clinic.

Signs of dog flu can be similar to kennel cough, another respiratory illness that dogs can get. Symptoms include: Runny nose, Cough, Sleepiness, Fever, Discharge from the eyes, Decreased appetite. In some cases, your pet won’t have any symptoms at all. Less commonly, they might become severely sick. Call your veterinarian if you think your pet has dog flu or an infection from dog flu. They’ll check your dog for symptoms. The vet might suggest testing for H3N8 or H3N2 canine influenza. If you plan to take your dog to the vet to check for dog flu, let them know beforehand.