How to Diagnose Dog Flu

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Look out for a cough.Canine influenza is oftentimes confused with kennel cough

   If your dog is coughing or showing other respiratory signs or difficulty breathing, you should bring him or her to the vet to be tested for (and possibly diagnosed with) canine influenza.
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   Step 2: as both infections affect the respiratory tract.

   You will notice moisture and secretions in excess of your dog's usual "wet nose"! , Your dog may also have a fever, although this can be harder to detect without the tools and experience of a veterinarian. , A decreased appetite is another sign that your dog may be suffering from canine influenza. , This is because the virus is transmitted directly from dog to dog.
   
   Therefore, if your dog has been out and about with other dogs, the likelihood of him or her catching canine influenza is significantly higher. , This can tell you for sure whether or not your dog has come down with the dog flu.
   
   The vet will take a nasal sample, which will then be analyzed in the lab to test for the presence of canine influenza., Treatment is mainly "supportive," meaning that your dog should get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and receive medications for symptom management.
   
   Although there is no cure for the virus itself, with the proper support (and sometimes antibiotics as well to prevent further infection) your dog should recover within a week or so. , It comes as two shots, given several weeks apart, for approximately $50 per shot.
   
   However, the vaccine does not cover against the H3N2 strain of dog flu.
   
   Therefore, even if your dog has been vaccinated, it is still possible for him or her to catch the H3N2 strain of canine influenza and, if he or she shows symptoms suspicious of dog flu, it is best to see a vet.
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   Step 3: Watch for unusual moisture and wetness around your dog's nose.Your dog may have nasal discharge as a symptom of canine influenza.

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   Step 4: Observe for unusual lethargy and fatigue.If your dog is infected with canine influenza

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   Step 5: he or she will be more tired as his or her immune system works overtime trying to fight off the virus.

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   Step 6: Consider your dog's appetite.Has he or she been eating less than usual lately?

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   Step 7: Be aware of risk factors.If your dog has recently been in public places (with other dogs)

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   Step 8: such as doggy daycare

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   Step 9: a doggy boarding place

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    Step 10: or to the local dog park

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    Step 11: his or her risk of contracting the dog flu is higher than for dogs who are relatively isolated and stay at home.

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    Step 12: Get a diagnostic test.If you are worried that your dog has come down with canine influenza

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    Step 13: your best bet is to see the veterinarian for an official diagnostic test.

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    Step 14: Begin treatment.If your dog has canine influenza

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    Step 15: the vet can inform you about treatment options.

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    Step 16: Understand that being vaccinated does not prevent your dog from catching the dog flu.There is currently a vaccine available for the H3N8 strain of dog flu.

Detailed Guide

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