PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Two vaccines are available to protect dogs against H3N8; there is currently no vaccine available for H3N2. However, Dubovi expects there will eventually be one: “Rumors are that the biologics companies are working on a vaccine. They ought to be able to come out with a multivalent vaccine [which combines both viruses into one formula] with fewer regulatory hurdles than it would take to create a whole new one.” It is not known whether the H3N8 vaccine will also protect a dog against infection with H3N2.

The dogs most at risk of encountering canine influenza viruses are those who congregate in large numbers in confined spaces, such as at kennels, shelters, daycare facilities, dog parks and similar venues. Rural dogs on the whole may be less at risk of exposure, but contagion is still possible---for example, if you regularly take your dog to a boarding barn and he socializes with dogs there, some of whom might also frequent dog parks.

If you’ve heard that canine influenza outbreaks are in your area, exercise caution and ask questions before bringing your dog into contact with others. “If 100 dogs are congregating in one place, and 70 of them come down with a respiratory illness, chances are it’s influenza,” says Dubovi. “The only safe bet is to keep your dog away from other dogs.”

If you’ve heard that

canine influenza outbreaks are occurring in your area, ask questions before bringing your dog into contact with others.