Chances are, if your dog goes to daycare or boarding, they may need a canine influenza (CI) vaccine.  You may have heard about a current shortage of the vaccine.  If you have questions about canine influenza and how it might affect your dog, we’re here to help!

What is canine influenza? 

Canine influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that is spread through respiratory secretions—aerosolized droplets from things like coughing, sneezing, and barking. Symptoms include coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy, and fever. Unlike the human flu, there is no “season” for canine influenza. And while the symptoms of CI are like those of human flu, we can’t catch canine influenza from our dogs. 

There are currently two identified strains of the canine influenza virus. The H3N8 strain was first identified in 2004 among racing greyhounds in Florida, and the H3N2 strain was first identified in Chicago in 2015. CI is currently found in most US states and the District of Columbia. 

What’s going on with the canine influenza vaccine? 

The good news is, there’s a vaccination for canine influenza. The bad news is, the veterinary industry is currently experiencing a nationwide shortage of it. As is the case with many other things, pandemic-related supply chain issues are the cause. We are doing our best to keep the vaccine in stock and available to dogs who are at the highest risk.

What’s the risk? Should I vaccinate my dog? 

Canine influenza is easily spread through close contact with other dogs. Much like the bordetella (aka kennel cough) vaccine, the CI vaccine is recommended if your dog goes to dog parks, the groomers, day care, boarding facilities—anywhere they might encounter other dogs. Additionally, the vaccine may be recommended for elderly dogs or dogs with pre-existing conditions like heart or lung issues. Like most vaccines, it will either prevent the contraction of the infection altogether or reduce the severity and duration of it. 

Although it’s not a core vaccine, many boarding facilities and groomers require the CI vaccine. 

How concerned should I be? 

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the mortality rate for CI is less than 10%, and most deaths occur with severe infections. However, it can still make dogs quite sick and be costly and difficult to treat, so vaccinating at-risk dogs is crucial. If your dog is unable to get the vaccine or is considered at risk and you’re worried about them contracting canine influenza, it’s best to avoid places where they will encounter other dogs and/or only allow your dog to socialize with dogs who are healthy and have been vaccinated.  

If you have any further questions about canine influenza or would like to see about getting your dog vaccinated, give us a call at (802) 985-2525.