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Can Maltese get the Flu?
While we humans have all had the flu at least once and do all that we can to avoid contracting it, especially during “flu season”…what about our Maltese? Many owners don’t think about this as the colder season approaches…Many assume that a dog cannot catch the flu since the news keeps showing us updates on how humans are catching it and where it is widespread at different times.
Can a dog have the flu? Is this the same type of flu that we get?
There is such a health issue that is called “Dog Flu” and any Maltese can catch this.
What is it? A very contagious respiratory virus.
Let’s discuss exactly what Dog Flu is, how to help prevent your Maltese from catching this, symptoms and signs that your Maltese may have Dog Flu…and how this is treated.
Is it Flu Season for dogs? Let’s find out before any Maltese become ill.
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What Exactly is Dog Flu?The dog flu is an extremely contagious respiratory virus. The official medical term is a type A influenza virus called H3N8. It is believed that this strain originated in horses and then crossed over to canines. This is airborne and is passed from dog to dog via coughing or by the dog touching contaminated objects.
What are the Symptoms? The symptoms of Dog Flu are similar to Kennel Cough; but are different. The clearest difference will be that coughing lasts for a longer number of days. The signs are:
- Coughing for more than 10 to 20 days (the typical time for Kennel Cough to resolve). The cough is usually rather dry with no mucus.
- Nasal Discharge
- A low fever
- weakness
A small percentage of Maltese will have a more severe case of Dog Flu:
- Signs of Pneumonia
- A very high fever
- Extreme weakness
What is the Treatment?
The Dog Flu is an airborne virus and passed from dog to dog by coughing and when a Maltese touches an object that has the virus on it.
Nearly 100% of Maltese who are exposed to the Dog Flu will contract it.
Out of those dogs, 80% will have mild cases, some so mild that symptoms will not even appear – the dog’s body will make antibodies to defend against the Flu and you may never know your Maltese had it.
20% will have the more severe type.
Out of all of the dogs who catch the Dog Flu, 5 to 8% will not be able to fight it off and it will be fatal.
- Medicine given will be antibiotics and the use of a humidifier
- In severe cases in which Pneumonia develops, a Maltese may need IV fluid therapy in an animal hospital
If you ever have your Maltese in a boarding kennel, be sure to use one that you know or have very high recommendations to.
Ask kennel employees if they are familiar with the signs and symptoms of Dog Flu.
Stay aware of the current news. Look on the TV, radio and Internet for any announcements that there is an outbreak of the Dog Flu.
If there is a known outbreak, do not bring your Maltese to the dog park, pet stores or any place where your Maltese may come into contact with other dogs or be where another dog just was.
If you Maltese ever shows the symptoms of Dog Flu, go to the veterinarian right away. For the sake of other dogs, do let the office know that you suspect the Dog Flu so that they may isolate your Maltese to stop the spread of this canine disease.
THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT: Vaccinate. In 2009 doctors developed a vaccination for canines for the dog flu (canine influenza virus). It is recommended to have your Maltese receive vaccinations especially if they are in contact with other dogs. It spreads very quickly, so this will mean dogs in the neighborhood that they may have “play dates” with, if your Maltese in in doggie day care, etc. Also, people who work with dogs such as animal shelter staff, vet assistants, etc may unknowingly transfer the flu to their own dogs at home.
For most dogs, the process of vaccination will be spread out…once a week for 3 weeks in a row and then a once a year should you wish to continue. Most veterinarians recommend the vaccine be administered if there is a known breakout in your area.
Note: As of January 1, 2012 most boarding facilities on Long Island and other areas around the country are requiring it prior to boarding or grooming.
Can Humans Catch It?
It is very unlikely. There has never been a reported case of a human catching the Flu from a dog. Veterinarians, vet techs and kennel workers often work very closely with dogs who have the Dog Flu and there has never been a reported case.
A Final, Important Word
The best way to protect your Maltese is to vaccinate, be aware of any outbreaks and to bring your Malt to the vet as soon as you notice any symptoms.
Looking for much more Maltese information? Do you have a Maltese question and would love direct advice from the PetMaltese Experts? Forget about those silly little books that already tell you what you know ! It is time for something different!
