Dog Flu Cases Reported in Kennesaw: What You Need to Know

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A dog food business in Kennesaw has decided to stop allowing pets into the store due to a significant number of dog flu cases that have been reported in the area.

“It’s come to our attention...and I have confirmed myself with staff at said locations ... the doggy flu has become quite widespread through out the Kennesaw area and there have been several outbreaks,” The Good Dog Co. wrote on its Facebook page Thursday.

“I’ve made a heartfelt decision and am asking that no dogs be brought into the store until further notice. We will miss our daily lovies from them but better safe then sorry. Please take the necessary precautions to protect your babies.”

According to Monroe Animal Care Hospital, eight cases of H3N2 Canine Influenza Virus have been reported in Cobb County and one case has been reported in Cherokee County. The hospital says the virus is extremely contagious, with over 80 percent of infected dogs showing symptoms.

Mild symptoms include a soft cough, a lack of energy, sneezing, a mild fever, reduced appetite, and discharge from the eyes and/or nose, the hospital says. Severe symptoms include fevers of 104 to 106 degrees and increased respiratory rates and effort.

The hospital urges dog owners to keep their dogs away from other dogs and places like dog parks, boarding facilities, grooming facilities, and social events featuring dogs.

If your dog does come down with Canine Influenza Virus, your veterinarian can prescribe medications to help fight the secondary bacterial infections which can accompany the virus. Most dogs will recover quickly with proper care, the hospital says.