The Importance of the Canine Influenza Vaccine for Dogs in Daycare and Boarding

It's a common scene at any pet daycare or boarding facility: dogs of various breeds, sizes, and ages, socializing, playing, and sharing their space. It's a veritable doggy Disneyland, bursting with the thrill of new friends and endless fun! But this shared environment comes with its own risks, the most prominent being the spread of infectious diseases such as canine influenza, also known as dog flu.

Vaccinating your dogs against Canine Influenza means much more peace of mind for you while they enjoy daycare with their pals!

What is Canine Influenza? 

Canine influenza or dog flu is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs and sometimes cats. There are two known strains, H3N8 and H3N2. Symptoms often mirror those seen in human flu, such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and fever. Though most dogs recover within two to three weeks, complications can lead to more severe conditions such as pneumonia, which can be fatal. 

Why Should My Dog Get Vaccinated?

The high contagiousness of canine influenza is particularly significant in daycare and boarding situations. The virus can spread through direct contact (licking, nuzzling), through the air (coughing, sneezing), and via contaminated surfaces (water bowls, toys). Given the social nature and close quarters of dogs in daycare and boarding facilities, even one infected dog can quickly lead to an outbreak, posing a risk to many pets at once.

Getting your pet vaccinated against canine influenza significantly reduces these risks. The vaccine stimulates the dog's immune system to create antibodies against the virus. If the dog is exposed to the virus, these antibodies can neutralize it or at least significantly reduce the severity of the disease. Note that while the vaccine doesn't entirely eliminate the risk of infection, it does reduce the severity of symptoms, the duration of the illness, and the spread of the virus to other dogs.

Many daycare and boarding facilities, including us here at Bark + Boarding, now require proof of vaccination against canine influenza due to its increased prevalence and potential severity. This protective measure ensures the safety and health of all dogs in the facility and provides peace of mind to pet parents.