Cold Versus Flu

• Although colds and flu are usually lumped together, there is a difference between the two. They are caused by different viruses and have a few different symptoms.
  
  Canine flu is caused by the Influenza A virus (H3N8) and symptoms include not only runny nose, coughing and sneezing but also a fever.
  
  Canine cold is caused by the Coronavirus group 2 (CRoV) and symptoms include runny nose, cough and sneezing, but fever is not generally associated with this virus. However, secondary bacterial infections that cause fever can be present.
  
  We will concentrate on the virus that causes the canine cold.
  
  

History

• Canine cold was first identified in England in 2003. Other countries where the virus is known to be prevalent include Greece, Japan, Ireland, Italy and the United Kingdom. As of 2006, approximately 55 percent of dogs in the United States were shown to have tested positive for having the virus or having had a previous exposure to the virus.
  
  Those dogs most likely to contract the virus are those kept in facilities that are densely populated with other dogs such as boarding facilities, kennels, shelters and dog shows.
  
  

Symptoms

• The coronavirus causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs that is known as "kennel cough." Symptoms of the coronavirus can include cough, runny nose, sneezing, and decreased activity and appetite. Again, due to the likelihood of a secondary infection, there may be other symptoms present, including fever. Symptoms may last for one to two weeks.
  
  In addition, dogs can have the virus without symptoms and still be able to pass it along.
  
  Treatment is based on presenting symptoms and is generally supportive in nature. A course of antibiotics may be necessary if a co-existing bacterial infection is present. Isolation or quarantine of the pet is also recommended, although the time frame is not defined. Three weeks is thought to be sufficient.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Although there is no vaccine for the treatment and prevention of this virus currently on the market, it is thought the infection itself provides some measure of immunity against re-infection.
  
  If your pet has a cold or is exhibiting cold symptoms, the best thing you can do to help prevent the spread of infection is to quarantine or isolate her. Sure you'd like to go to the park or to doggy day care, but keeping your friend at home will ensure you have done everything possible to keep this virus contained.
  
  In addition to isolation there are other measures that can be taken to help prevent its spread. Good hand washing and a change of clothes before interacting with other dogs is recommended. Disinfection of contaminated surfaces in public facilities helps to reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination.
  
  

Considerations

• Most symptoms are mild and can be supported at home. But if Fido's symptoms become severe, the most important thing you can do for him is to get him to the vet for an evaluation and any necessary treatment.
  
  It goes without saying that our pets look to us to act in their best interest. Recognizing the symptoms and following some of the above recommendations will help your dog recover quickly and without complications in the unlikely event he gets a cold.