Dogs with bird flu (avian influenza) typically show symptoms of severe respiratory distress, high fever, and extreme fatigue, usually appearing 2-5 days after exposure to infected birds, animals, or contaminated environments. Key signs include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis (red eyes), decreased appetite, and sometimes neurological issues like tremors or seizures.

What are bird flu symptoms in dogs?

Symptoms of avian flu in dogs can include gastrointestinal symptoms including a loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea; respiratory signs like coughing, nasal discharge, wheezing, or difficulty breathing; eye problems such as redness, inflammation, or discharge; and general signs of infection like fever and lethargy.

What happens if my dog catches bird flu?

Clinical signs of avian influenza in dogs include fever, lethargy, and severe respiratory distress. Dogs can die from H5N1, but some can also recover. Some may get and eliminate the virus, but we may not even know.

Is there a cure for bird flu in dogs?

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

There is no treatment for HPAI. The only way to stop the disease is to depopulate all affected and exposed poultry.

What are the first signs of bird flu?

Symptoms of bird flu

• high temperature, or feeling hot, cold or shivery.
• cough.
• sore throat.
• runny or blocked nose.
• wheezing and sneezing.
• shortness of breath.
• red, irritated eyes (conjunctivitis)

Avian Flu Outbreak affecting Pets?

Can dogs get bird flu from bird poop?

Dogs and cats can be infected with avian flu, although cases are rare. Pets are at risk if they come into contact with infected birds, droppings, or contaminated surfaces.

What kills bird flu virus?

Avian influenza viruses are enveloped and under warm conditions are readily inactivated by most chemical disinfectants, including those in laundry detergents (4–6). However, at temperatures below the freezing point, disinfectants may not be effective in killing viruses (7).

How rare is bird flu in dogs?

Dogs are not among the primary hosts of avian influenza, but they are not immune to it either. Although rare, there have been documented cases of dogs becoming infected with certain strains of bird flu, particularly H5N1.

What are the symptoms of the new dog virus going around 2025?

Symptoms of Dog Flu

• Fever.
• Cough.
• Sneezing.
• Lethargy.
• Green or yellow discharge around the nose and eyes.
• Laboured breathing.
• Decreased appetite.

How do you test a dog for bird flu?

Avian Influenza testing in cats and dogs FAQ

1. Single sterile swab used to sample both nostrils.
2. Ensure mucosa in the nasal passage is brushed firmly with the swab.
3. After both nasal passages have been sampled, place swab in PrimeStore MTM, BHI broth, or Saline (least preferable).

Are dogs getting bird flu in 2025?

While cats appear to be more at risk, dogs can also contract H5N1. However, dogs becoming sick remain rare, and as of May 2025, no symptomatic cases have been reported in dogs this year. It's possible some dogs carry the virus without showing symptoms.

How to avoid dogs getting bird flu?

Pet owners should not let their pets consume raw pet food or raw (unpasteurized) milk. Pet owners should prevent their pets from touching clothes or other surfaces or environments that could potentially be contaminated with avian influenza viruses.

What do birds act like if they have the bird flu?

Infected birds in backyard flocks, and possibly pet birds, may show one or more of the following signs: Sudden death with no prior signs. Low energy or appetite. Purple discoloration or swelling of various body parts.

Is it safe to walk dogs with bird flu?

As a general precaution, people should avoid direct contact with wild birds and observe wild birds only from a distance. Pet owners should prevent their pets, including birds, dogs, and cats, from interacting with potentially infected wild animals and backyard flocks alike.

Can dogs recover from flu on their own?

Yes, most dogs recover from dog flu (Canine Influenza Virus or CIV) on their own within 2-3 weeks with supportive care, as there's no direct cure; however, it's crucial to see a vet because mild cases need monitoring, and severe cases can lead to complications like pneumonia, requiring antibiotics or hospitalization. Supportive care focuses on rest, hydration, and keeping the dog comfortable while their immune system fights the virus, with vets often prescribing meds for secondary infections or severe coughs. 

What can I give my dog for flu?

How Is Dog Flu Treated?

• Rest.
• Extra fluids to help them stay hydrated.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to lower a fever.
• A body harness instead of collar to protect the throat.
• Nutritional support if you pet isn't eating well.
• Antibiotics if needed for any secondary bacterial infections.

What do dogs do when they have the flu?

How do I tell if my pet has the dog flu? Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, fever (>103.5F), frequent coughing, and decreased appetite. Symptoms can persist for two weeks or more. Some dogs can develop pneumonia from this and will need further care.

Can my dog get bird flu from bird poop?

Even within mammals, there's likely a lot of variation in susceptibility of different species, and types / level of exposures they're likely to have. So is there cause for concern regarding exposure of dogs (and other mammals) to H5N1 flu from bird feces in the environment? Yes, to some degree.

What are the early signs of dog flu?

What are the signs of canine influenza?

• Persistent cough.
• Thick nasal discharge.
• Fever (often 104-105oF)
• Lethargy.
• Runny eyes.
• Reduced appetite.

Can dogs get bird flu from dog food?

Dogs have a low risk of catching bird flu, but it's still possible. The main ways dogs can catch the illness are through sick or dead birds, unpasteurized dairy products, and raw (or undercooked) meat. The Farmer's Dog food is cooked to a temperature that kills bacteria and viruses—including bird flu.

How to cure bird flu fast?

People who get bird flu symptoms after exposure to infected or potentially infected birds, poultry, dairy cows, or other animals should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. People who have or are suspected to have bird flu should be treated with the flu antiviral drug, oseltamivir, as soon as possible.

Can bird flu spread human to human?

Animals do not normally spread avian flu to humans, nor does it usually spread from person to person. While there are no known cases of the current H5N1 avian flu virus spreading between people, public health officials monitor people following exposure to infected animals.

Are backyard chicken eggs safe from bird flu?

There is always going to be a risk of contracting the virus from backyard chickens, yet following proper safety measures will lower it. The chance of getting Salmonella from backyard-raised eggs is probably still higher right now, Pitesky says.

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