Highly Contagious Dog Flu Spreading Through U.S.

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Dog owners in the Hudson Valley need to be aware that a new strain of dog flu has been making the rounds in the United States and seems to be spreading. A news report out of Georgia said that the flu was spread by out-of-state dogs at a dog show in May. The dog flu, according to veterinarians is said to be so contagious that if a dog sneezes 20 feet away from another pooch it can be passed on.

People can also spread the virus by petting another canine, Fox 25 Boston said.

The Houston Chronicle warned its readers that the symptoms of the dog flu include loss of appetite, lethargy, cough, high fever and nasal discharge.

Veterinarians are recommending that dog owners and their pets avoid places such as dog parks, doggie day care and other places that dogs congregate.

The charmingly titled Dogington Post said that cases of canine influenza A H3N2 has been confirmed in Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois and Texas.

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So if you are planning on traveling during the summer with your furry child, be aware what you might encounter.

Photo credit: Brian Harkin/News/Getty Images.