Companion Dog Canine Influenza Welfare

Canine influenza viruses cause respiratory disease in dogs - outbreaks can cause significant welfare harm particularly in kennel environments.

Key Facts

Two canine influenza virus strains circulate - H3N8 (US origin) and H3N2 (Asian origin)
Clinical signs include cough, nasal discharge, fever, and in severe cases pneumonia
Mortality is typically low but welfare impact of respiratory disease is significant
Outbreaks in dog day care, boarding, and show environments spread rapidly through close contact
Vaccination is available and recommended for dogs with high social exposure
The UK has had limited canine influenza outbreaks compared to the US but risk remains

Welfare Considerations

Canine influenza causes acute respiratory suffering and poses higher mortality risk to immunocompromised or elderly dogs. Welfare in boarding and day care environments depends on robust biosecurity including health screening, isolation protocols, and vaccination requirements. Outbreak management requires rapid isolation to prevent further spread.

What You Can Do

Discuss canine influenza vaccination with your vet if your dog has high social exposure
Ask boarding facilities about their canine influenza vaccination requirements
Isolate any dog showing respiratory illness from other dogs immediately
Report suspected canine influenza outbreaks to your vet for surveillance purposes
Support good biosecurity practices in dog training, day care, and show environments