Veterinarians statewide are warning pet owners to watch our for a recent outbreak in canine flu.

While only a few cases of a new strain of the flu have reached the state, including in Wilton, vets strongly recommend getting dogs vaccinated.

The Cannondale Animal Clinic say there are a few signs that mean you should bring in your dog for a checkup and flu test. Vets say dog flu is a highly contagious respiratory infection that usually starts with a cough, reduced appetite and fever.

Two dogs taken to Cannondale showed flu symptoms, but their tests came back negative.

Many animal hospitals are treating any sick dogs with a cough outside their facilities to prevent the flu from possibly spreading.

The illness can be more severe for puppies and older dogs. If caught early, the death rate from dog flu is very low.