This year was tough in regard to cold and flu season, and it's not even over yet! It seems that flu season isn't just spreading far and wide for people, but for our pets as well.

According to CBS News, dog flu cases are on the rise in some areas of the country and experts are warning pet parents to be on the watch for the symptoms.

Photo: Pexels/Lisa Fotios

According to the outlet, areas with a notable increase in canine flu cases include Philadelphia, North Texas, and Minneapolis.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, canine influenza isn't the same as the influenza viruses that humans contract, so there's no need to worry about spreading it from human to dog or vice versa. Canine influenza is caused by two Type A viruses: H3N8 and H3N2.

Photo: Pexels/Alejandro Mendoza

The CDC further reports that no human infections have ever been reported due to canine influenza, and the virus is generally not life-threatening for dogs though it can be on occasion.

Symptoms to watch for include the following:

- cough
- runny nose
- fever
- lethargy
- eye discharge
- reduced appetite

It's important to note that some dogs who have the virus will remain asymptomatic.

Photo: Pexels/Tima Miroshnichenko

In an interview with PopSugar, Dr. Gary Richter, a veterinarian, said that canine flu symptoms can mimic kennel cough, and any dog displaying symptoms should be evaluated by a professional.

He said, "The symptoms of canine influenza can initially look very similar to kennel cough, but there is a laboratory test that can confirm the diagnosis. Dogs with influenza are frequently put on antibiotics to prevent and treat secondary bacterial infections. Animals with severe symptoms may need to be hospitalized and put on IV fluids while they are recovering."

Stay safe and healthy!