15 Oct The Difference Between Dog Flu and Cold – Symptoms and Treatments (Part 1)

As the weather cools and the season change, families or offices can always catch the flu. However, it isn’t only humans who are affected; dogs are also susceptible to the flu. This article aims to familiarize you with dog flu’s essential points to follow the preventive measures correctly. Also, be aware of the symptoms and critical care tips during the dog flu and take the necessary steps. so you can take the necessary steps quickly.

What is dog flu?

Flu is relatively common in dogs and is similar to the common cold in humans; The point is, you can’t get the flu from your dog, and vice versa. The dog flu virus mainly affects his respiratory system and can be dangerous if not taken seriously. The virus is contagious and can spread rapidly; Because most dogs aren’t immune to dog flu unless vaccinated. Dogs can get the disease from close contact with other dogs through food bowls, shared toys, airborne droplets from sneezing, coughing, and barking. Dogs of all breeds and ages are susceptible to the virus, and almost all dogs exposed to the virus become infected.

 Signs and symptoms

The canine flu is divided into H3N2 and H3N8, which affect the respiratory system and are highly contagious. But there’s a vaccine for both species. There are several symptoms of dog flu that owners of these animals should be aware of them. The symptoms of the flu vary from mild to severe. Some dogs can get very sick, while others can fight the virus quickly. Unlike human flu, the disease isn’t seasonal in dogs. So watch for the following symptoms in your dog throughout the year:

• Cough ( wet and dry)
• Sneeze
• Nasal discharge ( purulent or non-purulent)
• Irrigation of the eyes
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• Anorexia

Talk to your veterinarian if you notice any signs of the virus. Most cases of the flu are mild in dogs, but severe cases can also occur. In such cases, dogs develop pneumonia, difficulty breathing and high fever. Dogs generally have a wet cough and nasal discharge; Dry coughs are sometimes seen in puppies. Dogs with severe flu show symptoms quickly and have a fever of more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. They may also develop pneumonia or other secondary infections; They may also cough up blood. Symptoms of dog flu last between 10 and 30 days. Fortunately, the mortality rate in this type of disease is relatively low, with less than 10% of cases leading to death.

 The difference between a dog flu and a cold

Symptoms of dog flu are different from those of viruses and bacterial infections, similar to the common cold in humans. Some of these diseases include dog adenovirus type 2, canine parainfluenza virus and canine coronavirus.

Symptoms of a dog’s cold include sneezing, coughing, runny eyes, congestion, runny nose, and your dog’s unusual behaviour, such as lethargy. With mild cold symptoms, you may not have to go straight to the vet, and you can treat the disease at home. If your dog is still active and eats food and drinks usually, your veterinarian may tell you to try home remedies. These home remedies for your dog are similar to caring for someone who has a cold. Encourage your dog to rest, drink water and eat. Wipe their eyes and nose with a damp cloth or tissue. Wet wipes are more suitable for sensitive skin because the pH is balanced and gentle. The important thing isn’t to give your dog a cold or cough medicine without consulting a veterinarian. If your dog’s cold symptoms get worse every time, the dog will usually stop eating and drinking. Contact your veterinarian if the dog has difficulty breathing or doesn’t be better within two weeks.

Suitable food

Having dog flu, like any other illness, can cause your dog to lose his appetite. For this reason, a sick dog may refuse to eat. In general, a missed meal isn’t a concern. But if your dog constantly refuses to eat, you should look for the cause and encourage your dog to eat proper dog food, considering the symptoms of the disease. When dogs have diseases like dog flu, it’s easier for their stomachs to eat and digest certain foods. Here are some of these foods:

Wet food

If your dog usually eats dry ​​food, try to include wet foods in his dog’s diet during his dog flu periods. Wet food helps your dog get enough water during the illness.