Canine influenza is caused by two influenza viruses—H3N8 and H3N2—that spread rapidly wherever dogs gather. Unlike seasonal human flu, most dogs have little to no natural immunity, allowing outbreaks to spread quickly through boarding facilities, daycare centers, grooming salons, shelters, training classes, dog shows, and other social environments.
At Pet Wellness Veterinary Center, we recommend the bivalent canine influenza vaccine for dogs whose lifestyle places them at increased risk of exposure. This vaccine protects against both H3N2 and H3N8 influenza strains and is recommended based on your dog’s individual activities and environment.
Which Dogs Benefit Most?
Our veterinarian may recommend canine influenza vaccination for dogs that:
- Stay at boarding facilities
- Attend doggy daycare
- Visit grooming salons regularly
- Participate in training classes
- Compete in dog sports or conformation shows
- Travel frequently with their families
- Visit areas where canine influenza outbreaks have occurred
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is canine influenza the same as kennel cough? No. Canine influenza and kennel cough are different respiratory diseases, although they can cause similar symptoms. Because multiple viruses and bacteria can contribute to respiratory illness, our veterinarian may recommend both vaccines for dogs with frequent social exposure.
- Can vaccinated dogs still get canine influenza? Yes. Like the human flu vaccine, canine influenza vaccination may not prevent every infection but can help reduce the severity of illness and decrease viral shedding, which may help limit the spread of disease.