COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)–As a news of dog flu cases out west circulates on social media, some local pet owners are concerned about keeping their dogs flu free.

Just like the human flu the the latest strain of the dog flu or H3N2 is highly contagious, spreading in the air and on surfaces, like dog bowls.

Veterinarians here in Central Ohio say there’s no reason at all for pet owners to panic.

“Recently we haven’t been made aware of any cases and we certainly haven’t seen any increase in any respiratory disease in our facility here,” said Dr. Joshua Daniels of the Ohio State Veterinary Medical Center.

Veterinarians say kennels and shelters are places that are more prone to dog flu outbreaks .

If you are concerned your dog might be sick watch for symptoms including cough, fever or a reluctance to eat.

The dog flu is a virus so it’s not treatable by antibiotics.

Veterinarians say it can sometimes last anywhere between 10 and 21 days.

They say there’s really no need to vaccinate your dog unless you put your dog in a kennel frequently or are traveling often with your dog to dog shows.