• 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.

How contagious is canine influenza?

• Just like human “flu,” canine influenza is highly contagious.  In fact, unless a dog has already had the illness and recovered, virtually every dog exposed to the virus could become infected.  While 100% of dogs are susceptible to influenza infection, about 80% of infected dogs will show signs of infection.  Dogs that do not show signs of the disease can still spread the virus to other dogs.
• Since 2003, there have been numerous reports of influenza outbreaks in veterinary clinics, kennels, and shelters.  Some of these outbreaks were traced back to the presence of one sick dog that spread the virus throughout the facility and infected many other dogs.
• Canine influenza is usually mild but can become quite serious in some dogs.

What are the signs of canine influenza?

• The most common sign is a persistent cough.  Some dogs have a soft, moist, “productive” cough, while others have a dry cough similar to that seen in dogs with kennel cough (caused by any of a number of other viruses/bacteria).
• About 80% of dogs who show signs will have mild disease.  Signs in this case include: low-grade fever (102 to 104 degrees), nasal discharge, lack of energy, loss of appetite, and a cough that can last for up to a month.
• In about 20% of dogs, more severe signs will occur, such as a high fever (104 to 106 degrees) and pnuemonia.  A small number of dogs infected with the virus have died from complications associated with the disease.

Is my dog at risk for infection?

Most dogs, regardless of breed or age, are at risk for canine influenza.  However, certain locations or activities can raise your dog’s risk of infection.  Review this list of questions to see if any of these places/activities apply to your pet.

Does your dog:

• Come from a shelter, rescue center, breeding kennel, or pet store?
• Board at a kennel or go to doggie daycare?
• Attend group training or “dog kindergarten”?
• Visit a groomer, dog park, or engage with other dogs on daily walks?
• Enter dog events?
• Come into contact with other dogs in the waiting room during visits to your veterinary clinic?

If you answered “YES” to one or more of these questions, ask us what can be done to protect your dog from canine influenza.

How is canine influenza spread?

Canine influenza is spread the same way that human flu spreads – through direct contact (kissing, licking, nuzzling); through the air (coughing or sneezing); and via contaminated surfaces. 

How can I protect my dog from canine influenza?

Protection starts by keeping your dog in good general health.  A well-nourished, well-rested, and well-cared-for pet will have a stronger immune system to help fight off infection.  Recently, a new canine influenza vaccine – the first of its kind – was approved for use in the US.  The initial vaccination requires 2 doses, 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination.

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. 

The first step to knowing what vaccines your dog needs is to know how old your dog is. 

Here is our common vaccination schedule beginning at 6-8 weeks of age:

6-8 weeks:  Your puppies first visit would include a thorough physical examination, 5-way combination  vaccine (canine parvovirus, canine adenovirus types 1 and 2, canine parainfluenza, canine coronavirus), intestinal parasite dewormer, and a complimentary one-month dose of heartworm/flea and tick prevention.

10-12 weeks: 5-way combination booster, intestinal parasite dewormer, canine bordetella

16 weeks – 5-way combination booster, Leptospirosis (include leptospirosis in the combination vaccine where leptospirosis is a concern, or if traveling to an area where it occurs), and Rabies.

Adult (boosters) - 5-way combination vaccine, Leptospirosis, Rabies, Canine Influenza.

According to the 2009 American Kennel Club (AKC) registration statistics the top 10 most popular dogs in 2009 were:

Labrador Retrievers
	The gentle, intelligent and family-friendly Labrador Retriever from Canada continues to be the most popular breed in the United States, according to AKC® registration statistics. This versatile hunting breed comes in three colors – yellow, black and chocolate – and because of his aptitude to please his master they excel as guide dogs for the blind, as part of search-and-rescue teams or in narcotics detection with law enforcement.
German Shepherds
	The German Shepherd Dog is hailed as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, however, this dependable breed is more than its 9-to-5 job. Consistently one of the United States’ most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics, the German Shepherd Dog is also a loving family companion, herder and show competitor. The breed is approachable, direct and fearless, with a strong, muscular body. The GSD may be most colors, but most commonly is black and tan.
Yorkshire Terriers
	Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as “Yorkies,” offer big personalities in a small package. Though members of the Toy Group, they are terriers by nature and are brave, determined, investigative and energetic. They have long, luxurious blue and tan coats.
Golden Retrievers
	The Golden Retriever, with its intelligence and eager to please attitude, is one of the most popular breeds in the United States according to AKC® registration statistics. The working ability that has made the Golden Retriever such a useful hunting companion also make him an ideal guide, assistance and search and rescue dog. The golden-colored coat is the hallmark of this versatile breed, and can range from light to dark gold.
Beagles
	A sturdy hunting dog, the Beagle should look like a foxhound in miniature. His hunting ability, combined with a merry personality, has made the Beagle one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC® Registration Statistics. The most famous Beagle of all is Snoopy from the comic strip “Peanuts.” Today’s Beagle comes in two height varieties (13 in. and 15 in.) and any true hound color, including tri-color, red and white and lemon.
Boxers
	The well-conditioned middleweight athlete of dogdom, the Boxer is a powerful dog with an intelligent and alert expression. While they are instinctive guardians, the Boxer loves to be with his people. This personality has allowed them to succeed as couriers during war time and as seeing-eye dogs for the blind. Appearing in both fawn and brindle colors.
Bulldogs
	Known for their loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head, the Bulldog is known to be equable, resolute and dignified. A medium-sized dog, they are not your typical lap dog, but would like to be! They are one of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics due to their lovable and gentle dispositions and adorable wrinkles. The Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow or piebald.
Dachshunds
	The Dachshund, meaning “badger dog” in German, is a lively breed with a friendly personality and keen sense of smell. Known for their long and low bodies, they are eager hunters that excel in both above- and below-ground work. One of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics, they come in three different coat varieties (Smooth, Wirehaired or Longhaired) and can be miniature or standard size.
Poodles
	The Poodle, though often equated to the beauty with no brains, is exceptionally smart, active and excels in obedience training. The breed comes in three size varieties, which may contribute to why Poodle is one of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration statistics. Poodles can be a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray, but never parti-colored.
Shih Tzu
	A compact and solid dog, the Shih Tzu’s long, flowing double coat is its most distinctive feature. The word Shih Tzu means “lion” and although this dog is sweet and playful, he is not afraid to stand up for himself! One of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC® Registration Statistics, this portable pooch has a distinctively arrogant carriage with his head well up and tail curved over the back. All colors of Shih Tzu are allowed.