Princeton Veterinary Hospital

What is Canine Influenza?

• Canine influenza is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by a “flu” virus.  In dogs, a highly contagious strain of the influenza A virus known as H3N8 is able to cause respiratory illness.  Other strains of the influenza A virus are responsible for causing infections in brids, horses, pigs, and people.  Canine influenza virus only affects dogs.  Currently 30 states have reported cases of canine influenza (the virus was first reported in Florida in March 2003).  At this time, Indiana has not yet had a confirmed case of canine influenza, however, the vaccine is now available at our clinic to help prevent spread of the contagious disease.

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What vaccines does my dog need?

The AVMA Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents’ Report on Cat and Dog Vaccines has recommended that the core vaccines for dogs include distemper, canine adenovirus-2 (hepatitis and respiratory disease), canine parainfluenza, canine parvovirus-2 and rabies.  Noncore vaccines include leptospirosis, coronavirus, and Bordetella bronchiseptica (both are causes of ‘kennel cough’), and Borrelia burgdorferi (causes Lyme Disease). Consult with our veterinarians to select the proper vaccines for your dog or puppy.Our clinic also offers the new vaccine for canine influenza.  In dogs, a strain of the influenza A virus known as H3N8 is able to cause respiratory illness.  Just like the human “flu”, canine influenza is highly contagious.  Most dogs, regardless of breed or age, are at risk for canine influenza.  Dogs at a higher risk for infection include: dogs that come from a shelter, rescue center, breeding kennel, or pet store; dogs who board at a kennel or go to a doggie daycare facility; dogs that attend group training or “dog kindergarten”: dogs that visit a groomer, dog park, or enter dog events.  The initial vaccination requires 2 doses, 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination. 

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 There are over 77 million pet dogs in the US, and almost 40% of families own at least one dog.

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