Canine Influenza Growing Concern

Dog owners should be aware of a new health risk for their pets. Canine flu was first discovered in 2004, the Center For Disease Control and Prevention says the virus likely started in horses, and then jumped to dogs.

There are no confirmed cases in Minnesota at this time, however, there is one suspected case and that animal died.

Dr.John Clappier from the Hudson Road Animal Hospital says most dogs who contract the canine flu virus will likely experience mild symptoms, "Sometimes they're going to have that characteristic cough, or there's going to be sneezing or a runny nose."

A vaccine is available, much like the vaccine for human forms of influenza. According to Dr. Clappier, because canine influenza is a new virus, dogs will first need two doses of vaccine to provide immunity, and an annual dose after immunity has been established.