We are currently carrying the vaccination for canine influenza and this vaccine is for the new strain of flu detected which is the H3N2 strain. The influenza vaccine is only for dogs and it must be given as a booster series of two vaccines three weeks apart, if never had it before. After the initial set of two boosters it can then be given once a year. The new strain of flu, H3N2, was discovered in 2015 and is thought to be a mutation of the previous strain of flu the H3N8.
There have been reports of this strain in Austin, Texas so we highly recommend starting all dogs on this vaccination, especially if they will come into contact with other dogs at boarding facilities, groomers and dog parks. This disease has sickened at least 2,000 dogs in 40 states since first discovered.
All dogs are susceptible to the disease since it is still emerging and there is no immunity to it as of yet. The vaccine is spread through contact with other dogs and is a highly contagious respiratory disease. This form of influenza is not transmittable to people, and our influenza is not transmittable to them. Symptoms of the influenza in dogs are coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, and runny nose. Severe cases even may develop a fever. If your dog becomes sick make a veterinary appointment as soon as possible to begin treatment.
If you have any other questions about the canine influenza vaccine don’t hesitate to give us a call! We look forward to seeing your pet soon to begin the vaccination boosters, if we haven’t already started them on the vaccination.
For those planning to board with us.
We wanted to make all of our boarders aware of a new policy for your pet’s protection. Dr. Walters is requiring all dogs planning to board at our facility to be vaccinated for the NEW strain of canine influenza, the H3N2. The reason for the change is because we do have reports of this virus in Texas and Dr. Walters wants to make sure everyone is protected while they are here in the boarding facility, since this virus is highly contagious.
Please give us a call to schedule an appointment today to get your dog started on the two boosters needed for immunity. The ideal time to do this is BEFORE you board, well in advance, not the day of the boarding. If the dog is not current on the new influenza he/she will be boarded in our hospital area and not our kennel. In order for your dog to have more room while vacationing here, make sure they are current on the new influenza.
Again, this is for your dog’s protection. Rest assured we have your pet’s best interests at heart!
Read this article about the Canine Influenza put out by the AVMA for background and update on the virus.
