Companion Animals

Companion Dog Canine Influenza Prevention

Canine influenza is an emerging respiratory disease in dogs requiring awareness and vaccination for dogs in high-contact environments.

Key Facts

Canine influenza H3N2 and H3N8 strains cause respiratory disease in dogs
Transmission occurs through direct contact and contaminated surfaces at dog-gathering sites
Clinical signs range from mild cough to severe pneumonia requiring hospitalisation
Vaccination is available and recommended for dogs in frequent contact with other dogs
Outbreak management requires isolating affected dogs and cleaning contaminated environments

Welfare Considerations

Canine influenza causes respiratory illness causing significant discomfort from coughing, fever, and in severe cases pneumonia with breathing difficulty. As an emerging pathogen, immunity is limited in naive populations. Vaccination protects individual dogs in high-contact situations and prevents epidemic spread through dog communities. Rapid isolation of affected dogs prevents transmission while protecting unvaccinated individuals.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate your dog against canine influenza if it attends daycare, boarding, or dog shows
Isolate any dog showing respiratory signs from other dogs until recovered
Advocate for vaccination requirements at dog-gathering facilities including boarding and training