A new strain of flu is affecting man's best friend. Health officials say a strain of flu virus, called Dog Flu, is affecting dogs in kennels in Texas and six other states. Researchers say the dog flu strain jumped from horses to dogs. Scientists say dogs have no immunity to the virus and a large number show no symptoms at all. Though few, some infected dogs die. Other canines experience only a fever and cough.
Dog Flu can spread from dog to dog through coughing and sneezing. Vets say it mimics a common illness called Kennel Cough. Dr. Schwede, owner of Acres North Veterinary Hospital tells us it's only a matter of time before the Dog Flu infects dogs in Lubbock. Though there is no vaccine for the illness, he says to keep dogs away from other dogs who have respiratory infections.
Health officials anticipate a vaccine for Dog Flu will be developed soon.