Dog Flu Spread From Georgia, Florida Dog Shows: Officials

PERRY, GA -- Over a dozen cases of canine influenza A virus, or dog flu, have been confirmed in the past week, with many of the cases tied to a Georgia dog show, according to the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. The first 12 dogs tested were found positive for H3N2 CIV.

The report said dogs testing positive for the strain were either at a Perry, Georgia, dog show from May 19 to 21, at the Deland, Florida, dog show the following weekend, or were exposed to dogs which were at these shows.

Officials say it is the same strain responsible for the "severe outbreak of canine influenza" in Chicago in 2015. Several dogs are being treated now, and are all in stable condition, according to the report.

The dog flu is a respiratory infection which can last two weeks or more. Most dogs recover at home without medical attention, but the state said some animals do require hospitalization. It may cause canines to suffer from fevers, decreased appetites, coughing, sneezing, runny noses and lethargy.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services said H3N2 is a "highly contagious virus," and that dog owners should get their pets vaccinated. Owners are urged to call their vets before taking their dogs in to ensure steps are taken to prevent further spreading of the virus.

“The virus can survive in the environment (kennel surfaces, food/water bowls, collars/ leashes, toys, beds) or on people’s clothing and hands for 12 to 24 hours before it dies,” the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine reports on its website. “It is easily killed by handwashing with soap and water, normal laundering of clothing and bedding, and washing food/water bowls and toys with soap and water.”

Patch reported that according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the outbreak of N3N2 virus began in Chicago in 2015 and is “believed to have resulted from the direct transfer of an avian influenza virus – possibly from among viruses circulating in live bird markets – to dogs."

Thousands of dogs across the country have been confirmed positive for the virus over the past few years. The University of Florida findings show that there is no evidence of the virus infecting humans.

For more details on the dog flu, visit the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine website.

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