Canine Influenza is a new virus of dogs. Like other respiratory diseases, this starts with a cough and can be difficult to differentiate from “ordinary kennel cough”. Approximately 10-15% of dogs infected with canine influenza will get “sick” and require medication and/or hospitalization.

Since this is a new virus, there is no natural immunity and every dog that is exposed, will contract the disease. Dogs that do not show signs of the disease can still spread the virus to other dogs. Areas where dogs congregate will present the greatest risk including doggie day care centers, boarding facilities, dog shows, grooming parlors and dog parks.

Canine influenza spreads the same way that human flu spreads – through direct contact (kissing, licking, nuzzling); through the air (coughing or sneezing); and via contaminated surfaces (such as when a person picks up the virus on their hands or clothing, then touches or pets a dog). Spread can also occur if that same person touches and contaminates another surface – a doorknob for example. Humans, however, cannot contract the virus.

Club Pooche is now requiring all clients to get this immunization for their pets in order to ensure the safety and well-being of all our dogs. The vaccine initially is a series of two vaccines given 2 – 4 weeks apart. This vaccine has been proven safe and well tolerated in trials involving more than 700 dogs. There were over 30 breeds ranging in age from 6 weeks to 10 years old.

For more information on the Canine Influenza Vaccine, H3N8, please contact your Veterinarian. You can also go online to read more about it.

www.doginfluenza.com

www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp

www.sheltermedicine.com/portal/is_canine_influenza_update.shtml

www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-carecanine-flu-question-and-answer.html