CIV is a contagious disease with symptoms that are similar to the human flu including cough, runny nose, and fever. The most common clinical sign of canine influenza is a cough that is unresponsive to antibiotics or cough suppressant therapy and lasts for 10–21 days.
How Does CIV Spread?
Canine influenza is easy to transmit and is spread through sneezing, coughing and nasal discharge, as well as through contaminated objects like bowls, collars, leashes, kennel walls, and floors. It can also be transmitted through people who have come in contact with infected dogs.
Which Dogs Should Get Vaccinated?
The decision to vaccinate is based on each dog’s risk and lifestyle. At-risk dogs are those with heart or respiratory conditions, canines that have flat faces, dogs that travel or show and dogs who come in contact with others (through park visits or boarding)—these dogs should be vaccinated.
Despite CIV being a non-core vaccine, we highly recommend it for all dogs in our area—we even recently had an outbreak that stemmed from dog shows in Florida and Georgia. Since prevention is always better—and cheaper—we advise that you get your dog vaccinated against CIV. If you have any questions or concerns about CIV, please contact us at (713) 999-6095.
