Local veterinarians warn of rise in canine flu across Maryland-DC area

BALTIMORE — Veterinarians are seeing a rise in dog flu cases this winter.  

Dr. Marianne Bailey of Queenstown Vet Hospital says the tricky thing about dog flu, is that it presents itself like kennel cough and is highly contagious.

"It can spread very easily, so sometimes it can live on surfaces, and it loves to spread throughout kennels or doggie daycares" Bailey said.

Fortunately, there is a vaccine for your pup, and just like humans - it's recommended once a year.

"He's already been vaccinated for dog flu" said dog owner Lindsey Fox.

The rise in cases has some pet owners on the lookout.  "That's not comforting at all" said dog owner Nate Bell Jr".

Like Nate Bell Jr. who says he's going to keep a close eye out for any symptoms in his pet.

"I'll be very vigilant from now on to make sure everyday he's okay he's got a good temp" said dog owner Nate Bell Jr.

Veterinarians say it's treatable - doctors would treat it just like you would for kennel cough, they say antibiotics will usually get your pet feeling better within a couple of days