The dog flu is an infectious disease that can be passed from dog to dog.If your dog has come down with the flu, it is a good idea to see a vet.Treatment usually consists of a combination of rest, hydration, and sometimes medications.After about a week, your dog should recover.If your dog has a health condition such as heart or kidneys disease, they will need a lot of nursing care to support them through a difficult time.
Step 1: Understand that there is no cure for canine flu.
Supportive care is what your dog's doctor will offer.Supportive care is a combination of symptom management and rest so that your dog's immune system is best able to fight off the virus.Your dog's immune system is the only thing that can fight the bug.Make sure your dog's eyes and nose are clean.To clean these areas, use a cotton pad soaked in water that has been boiled and cooled to room temperature.Make sure your dog's bed has a lot of padding.Bed sores can be developed if your dog isn't moving very much.Provide more padding and blankets.Make sure your dog is not too warm or too cold.
Step 2: Give your dog some fluids.
If your dog becomes dehydrated as a result of fighting off canine flu, the vet may give you an IV.Encourage your dog to drink more water if the dehydration is mild.A dog needs to drink 50 liters of water for every kilogram of their body weight.If you don't want your dog to drink, you can inject water through the side of their mouth.
Step 3: Your dog should be encouraged to eat.
It's important for your dog to keep their strength up even though they don't have much interest in eating.If your dog won't eat, offer them some wet or canned food.The dog may be interested in eating some of the treats you give them.If nothing seems to be working, you should ask your vet about Oralade, a liquid food that you can give your dog.
Step 4: Ask about the drugs for symptom management.
Your vet can advise you as to pet-friendly alternatives that can help to decrease the bothersome symptoms for your dog, as his or her immune system works to.If your dog has any of the symptoms of canine flu, you should speak to your vet about the best way to treat it.
Step 5: Antibiotics should be used for your dog.
Many veterinarians will offer your dog antibiotics in order to prevent what is called a "secondary bacterial infection."While your dog's immune system is busy fighting off the virus, it can become weakened and susceptible tobacterial infections.The antibiotics help to make sure that your dog has the fastest recovery possible.
Step 6: It's a good idea to prevent the spread of infections to other dogs.
While your dog is recovering from canine flu, it is important to keep them at home and away from other dogs.If your dog sneezes around other dogs, the virus can spread.Do not go to public places with other dogs such as doggy daycare.It can be difficult to keep your dog at home, but you would appreciate it if another dog owner did the same.You should wash your hands after touching your dog's food bowl, toys or bedding.Before touching another dog.Hire a dog walker for the duration of the illness if you work during the day and need to care for your dog.They are able to stop in during the day to check in on your dog and walk you dog without having to go to a public place.
Step 7: Your dog's progress should be monitored.
Over the course of a few days to a week or so, your dog should start to feel better, and symptoms should begin to disappear.If your dog isn't showing any signs of improvement after a week, you should bring them back to the vet.It could be that your dog needs to be hospitalized in more severe cases.It is best to see your vet and be safe rather than sorry.If your dog doesn't seem to be drinking a lot of water, watch for signs of dehydration.If your dog is not moving from their bed, check to make sure they are not soiling themselves.Twice daily, check your dog's temperature.The normal temperature is between 100 and 102.5F.Extra measures will need to be taken to support your dog if they have an underlying health condition.Stay at the veterinary clinic if you have to to ensure they are getting the necessary care.