At Lucky Dog, we are going to be proactive and require the H3N2 canine influenza vaccine, and recommend the H3N8 vaccine. We consulted with local vets and the Dept of Agriculture, plus our experience from the city wide H3N8 outbreak in 2008. The H3N2 virus has spread widely since it surfaced in 2015, and some experts suspect over 40 states have been affected. With a transient military and tourist population, dogs from all over the country are arriving all the time.
Here is some information from the American Veterinary Medical Association:
The symptoms are cough, runny nose, and fever, but not all dogs will show signs of illness.
It is spread to other dogs by direct contact with aerosolized respiratory secretions (coughing and sneezing) from infected dogs. This can happen in any social environment; training, grooming, store, dog park, boarding, daycare, etc..
If your dog is coughing contact your vet, keep them at home and avoid contact with other dogs. Also ask your vet to contact the manufacturer of the vaccine used, they should pay for your dog to be tested and may pay for the treatment.
Please talk to your vet about getting your dog vaccinated as soon as possible.
At Lucky Dog, we strive to provide the best service possible for your dog, and we hope you appreciate us being proactive to protect your dog against potentially deadly respiratory infections. Thank you for your understanding and your continued business.