Flu Strain Could Pose a Threat to Dogs Across Michigan [VIDEO]

The word on the street is Michigan canines could soon be at risk of contracting a nasty strain of influenza that has been knocking dogs’ dicks in the dirt in the upper Midwest. Recent reports indicate that well over 1,000 dogs in Illinois and Wisconsin have tested positive for dog flu, which is a disease similar to the human kind.

Animal experts say the symptoms of canine flu include cough, loss of appetite, sneezing, and runny nose. And while the illness is typically easy to treat, it can become serious and threaten the well being of your animal.

"The dogs tend to typically get higher fevers," Dr. Thomas Mullaney with the University of Michigan College of Veterinary Medicine told PNS. "They tend to eventually develop difficulty breathing because they have signs of pneumonia, and in those situations the possibility of secondary bacterial infections occurs."

The good news is, so far, there has been no sign of the H3N2 strain in Michigan. And even if this epidemic does hit the state, it does not pose any threat to humans. But the illness is very easily spread to other pets, so it is wise to separate your animals if one of your dogs begins displaying symptoms.

To learn more about canine influenza, visit the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association website.