Can Dogs Catch a Bird Flu?

The recent outbreak of bird flu in Asia has raised concerns about having this disease transmitted even to our own pets. Since the flu virus has the ability of evolving into new strains, it has been generally feared that this pathogen may cause a pandemic by entering the system of canines, too. Can avian influenza be also acquired by domestic canines? If so, how do they get it and what can we do to prevent that from happening?

Bird flu comes from and lives in the guts of birds. This can transform itself into new strains when caught by humans or other animal species. Thus, they gradually develop into a new virus that can survive on their specific hosts. Human beings, however, can survive these viruses because their immune systems still can recognize these pathogens even if they have already evolved into some new form.

Recent reports have indicated that canines were also being infected by avian influenza or bird flu such as tigers, leopards and also dogs. This came as a surprise since dogs had been known to be able to withstand this virus in earlier studies. Some had guessed that this might be a new strain which has passed from humans, then into pigs, and ultimately into the dog. It has not been clearly shown as to how these animals got infected with the virus but other reports have shown that most of them had come into contact with some infected bird or their infected feces.

Some symptoms of it were frequent coughing, which is not dry, and a very thick discharge of nasal mucus. In its advanced stages, symptoms would include a very high fever, heavy breathing, and pneumonia. If you see any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately. To prevent your dog from acquiring this disease, you may consider keeping him inside your premises or restraining him on a leash.

This will keep him from coming into contact with infected birds and their feces. You may also consider abstaining from bird hunting with your dog as he may catch this from wild birds. There had been only very few instances of dogs acquiring the bird flu virus, and it is indeed very rare. But it will always be a wise decision to take preventive measures early on so as to avoid any chances, even the least possibility, of it getting into our pet dogs.

Steve Weber, an avid dog lover, has much experience in dealing with dog arthritis and other canine health related issues affecting pets. On his website, Steve offers many more articles and detailed information about using his product, Syn-flex glucosamine, for treating osteo-arthritic disease.