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Unfortunately, the answer to this question is not known but there is a possibility. In fact, in November of 2009 a case of swine flu was confirmed in a cat. Prior to that, two ferrets had the disease which eventually killed them. So far, scientists have not found a case in which a human got the virus from one of these animals, but there are cases in which verified swine flu has jumped from human to pet.

Doctors and veterinarians are still studying the swine flu but what has been confirmed is a new strain of dog flu. In fact it is such a new strain that if your dog is exposed he will probably get it because he has no immunity.

 This is a time to take extra care when searching for puppies for sale. Since this flu is new, with no immunity, if the mother catches it you can bet her litter will also get sick. Really inspect the litter, the mother and any other dogs in the house before you take your new pup home. This is especially important if you have other dogs in your home that can catch the flu from the new arrival.

Symptoms of this flu (not all have to be present) are:

Depression

Listlessness

Sneezing

Dry, hacking cough (humidifiers can help your dogs with this)

Gagging or choking

Runny eyes

Loss of appetite

Dehydration – lightly pull your dog’s skin and if it stays without immediately going back, then there is dehydration in the dog. If your dog has not been eating or drinking, dehydration is a distinct possibility. Sometimes the dog will drink cold milk and it is worth it to try that because any liquid you can get down a dehydrated dog will help.

Loss of energy

Extreme lethargy

High fever (over 105)

Yellow or green discharge (the color may indicate infection)

The dog flu symptoms are very much like kennel cough; however, in kennel cough, the primary symptom is that constant cough.

There is a vaccine out for your dog to prevent this flu; however, if one of your dogs gets the dog flu, again they will probably all get it. So far there is no evidence to indicate humans can get this flu.

 If your dog develops a secondary infection from the flu, he may need to be put on an antibiotic; he could even develop pneumonia.

 Pet owners know their animals seem to get little bugs just like humans get and have seen their share of colds and flu-like symptoms in their dogs. This new flu is different. The depression is a symptom that really stands out.

 Responsible dog owners will keep an eye out for these flu-like symptoms in their dogs and avoid dog parks and other public areas if their dogs are ill. Breeders need to be aware of this new strain of flu as it can spread through a kennel very quickly. While it is not normally fatal like the dreaded parvo virus, it is especially dangerous to newborn pups or elder dogs.

It should be noted that this flu as well as the vaccine are both newly discovered. It might be a good time to avoid taking your dog to the veterinarian unless completely necessary because like a doctor’s office for humans, this can be a good place for your pet to catch the flu.

If your dog is sick, make sure it gets plenty to drink. Monitor its fever. Kennel owners will usually have access to antibiotics once an infection has been confirmed. Responsible breeders will make sure the flu has run its course before sending a puppy or dog to a new home.

If your dog does get the new dog flu, it is most likely that he will then have immunity to any future exposure

Cathy Jordan is the Editor for onlinepups4sale.com.au