Tips for Preventing Canine Influenza

Many of our clients have called to learn how they can keep their dog safe and healthy, so Dr. Sullivan has suggested these tips:

What is Canine Influenza?

Canine Influenza is a respiratory virus that can cause severe disease and even death in extreme cases. The greatest risk of contact is when your dog is placed in a situation where there is contact with other dogs, such as doggie daycare, boarding kennels, grooming parlors and the like. Young dogs, older dogs, and dogs with a compromised immune system are at greatest risk.

Signs of Canine Influenza

The signs of Canine Influenza are coughing, nasal discharge, high fever and often lack of appetite. If you see any of these symptoms, we urge you to call us and make an appointment with one of our doctors.   

How do I prevent my dog from getting Canine Influenza?

The easiest form of prevention is having any dog who regularly comes into contact with other dogs vaccinated against the virus. We have both the H3N2 strain and the H3N8 strain vaccines available. Like the human flu, it's also very important for pet owners to change their clothes and wash their hands if they have been exposed to sick dogs to prevent to spread of the disease to their own pets.