A quick update on Canine Influenza, and reminder to anyone considering boarding a dog over the summer months to plan ahead five weeks or more.
When Canine Influenza broke out locally, we reached out and began conducting vaccine clinics. We started with two clinics, and kept adding more to keep up with demand. In all, we conducted 19 vaccine clinics! People let us know that they appreciated the fast, efficient experience. It was gratifying to hear. Plus, many of those with regular appointments had their dogs vaccinated. Overall, the response to Canine Influenza immunization was tremendous. It seems to have helped.
Currently, we're not seeing any new active cases. Overall, the Canine Influenza outbreak itself seems to have dropped off. This doesn't mean that the "flu season" is over because with Canine Influenza there isn't a "flu season" as such.
Therefore, if you are planning to board your dog this summer, or have your dog socialize with other dogs for any reason, you will want to plan ahead. While we don’t absolutely require the canine influenza vaccine to board at our facility, we do strongly encourage it. If it’s been a year or more since your dog was fully vaccinated for canine influenza, or if you have received a reminder from us, then it is time to do it again.
The first vaccination is followed by two to three weeks of waiting, then the second vaccination. While no vaccine is 100%, it takes two weeks after the second vaccine before the dog is considered to have protection. In total, it's a five (5) week process for immune protection to occur. Dogs in close proximity to other dogs still need the canine influenza vaccine no matter what time of year.
As for the recent outbreak, we want to thank all of our clients who responded so quickly. You did your part for community immunity. Thank you!
