This spring an outbreak of canine influenza sickened more than 1,000 dogs in the states surrounding Michigan.

Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Indiana have all seen cases of the virus, some of them deadly.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has now confirmed three cases of dog flu in Michigan: two in Grand Rapids and one in Macomb County, Wood TV 8 reports.

Wood TV 8 spoke with local veterinarian, Dr. Richard Bennett, a local veterinarian, about what dog owners should be looking out for.

The symptoms are similar to human flu:

  • coughing
  • sneezing
  • fever
  • nasal discharge
  • lethargy

According to Live Science, experts say the H3N2 virus is a new strain of flu, that before the recent outbreak had not been seen in the U.S. It's believed to have originated in Asia.

H3N2 canine influenza is highly contagious, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

The virus is spread through nose to nose contact with other dogs at places like doggy day cares, boarding centers, and dog parks.

If your dog seems sick, you're encouraged to avoid social situations with other pets and to contact your veterinarian.

For more information, visit the AVMA's website.

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