November 2009 - Canine influenza virus is a virus that causes the flu in dogs. The canine influenza virus was originally a horse virus that has spread to dogs and can now be spread between dogs.
Canine influenza was first reported at racing greyhound kennels in Florida and since has spread north. It has been confirmed in Massachusetts in a small number of dogs.
Most dogs infected with canine influenza will have a mild form of the disease with no symptoms or mild symptoms of a cough, runny nose, and fever. A small number of infected dogs will have more severe disease with pneumonia and possibly death. About 80% of dogs will have a mild form of the disease, and most dogs recover with no treatment or supportive care such as IV fluids and medication.
Canine flu is spread from direct contact between dogs, by contact with contaminated objects, and by people touching infected and uninfected dogs.
We have not confirmed any cases of canine influenza at our clinic, or in the area that we know of, but we feel that it is reasonable to offer the vaccine to at risk dogs. These would include dogs that travel to dog shows, boarding kennels, doggie daycare, groomers, or anywhere large numbers of dogs congregate.
The virus is NOT known to spread to humans, and the CDC considers it a low threat to humans.
Medfield Veterinary Clinic will be offering the vaccine to at risk dogs. The vaccine is a set of 2 vaccines given 2 to 3 weeks apart.
More information about the canine influenza virus can be found at the CDC’s website http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets.