This year if you come down with the sniffles and a bad cough, you'll wonder whether you're developing a cold, the regular flu, or the swine flu and now veterinarians say you need to watch your dog for the same symptoms.

Unlike swine flu, canine influenza is not a danger to humans, but in a small number of cases, it can be very hard on your dog. Like a human, your dog can develop pneumonia from the flu, and even die from it.

The American Veterinary Medical Association says 30 states and Washington D.C. are now reporting confirmed cases of dog flu. Pennsylvania is one of the states where it's considered to be very prevalent with Philadelphia regarded a hot spot, and Pittsburgh an area where the flu is showing up in higher numbers.

Centre Animal Hospital Veterinarian Dr. Mark Michelotti said, "we haven't been impacted here in Central Pennsylvania to any great degree that I'm aware of, but it's only probably a matter of time, because all dogs have never seen this virus before, so they will be able to be infected and it will spread."

He says canine influenza is highly contagious and spreads like the human flu through sneezing, coughing, and contaminated objects. For dogs, includes items used in a shelter, a kennel or grooming area.

 According to Dr. Michelotti, "they believe all dogs that get exposed will be infected about one in five, about 20% won't show any symptoms, but they can carry it and shed it from ten days to two weeks." Dogs who come down with the flu can be treated with antibiotics, cough suppressants, eye drops, and decongestants.

The Centers For Disease Control says 80% of those infected will develop only a mild case. A small number develop pneumonia.

Dr. Michelloti said, "dogs can die, 5 to 8% of dogs have been known to die from this in spite of efforts at supportive care." A new vaccine approved in July helps protect dogs from the worst effects of the virus. It's recommended for dogs who regularly come in contact with other canines.

Dogs need two doses of the vaccine, 2 to 4 weeks apart. It's expected to cost about $20 a shot.

Other respiratory illnesses, including allergies can also cause flu-like symptoms in dogs.  Your veterinarian can perform a swab test to confirm dog canine influenza.

For more information, log onto:  http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp.