Dog flu: Should you rush to vaccinate your dog?

RELATED: What you need to know about potentially deadly strain of dog flu

The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine urges dog owners to have their pets vaccinated, but stresses it is even more important to have them vaccinated if you board your dog, take them to the groomer, dog day care, dog shows or other venues, where your pet may be in close contact with other dogs, according to the college's website.

The university urges dog owners to watch for coughing, nasal and eye discharge, sneezing and fever.  In more serious situations, symptoms may include lethargy or not eating or drinking.

The first known case of dog flu locally was confirmed in Mason.

The American Veterinary Medical Association calls the dog flu vaccine as a "lifestyle" vaccine and said it "is not recommended for every dog," according to its website.

The association agrees with OSU College of Veterinary Medicine that dogs particularly at risk are those that participate in activities with other dogs.

The CDC reports that most dogs recover within two to three weeks and "the percentage of dogs infected with this disease that die is very small," according to its website.