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Canine influenza virus and H3N8 flu vaccination for dogs in Rochester
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As concern over the spread of H1N1(swine flu) virus grows, so does concern about another Influenza A virus, know as Subtype H3N8 or canine influenza virus(CIV). You may be wondering if your dog needs the H3N8 flu vaccination.
While concern about the canine flu is warranted, Greater Rochester area dog owners need not panic. Several area veterinary clinics(see list at end) in Monroe, Wayne and Ontario counties have indicated that the H3N8 remains a "lifestyle" vaccination and that there have not been any confirmed cases in these areas to date.
Dogs that regularly attend dog daycare or frequently attend activities that bring large groups of dogs together in a confined area such as dog sport events and shows, training and boarding are considered to be most at risk especially if it is present in the area.
The H3N8 flu vaccine is made with killed virus and does not cause infection. While it does not necessarily prevent dogs from becoming infected, it will lessen the severity of the symptoms and reduce length of illness. The vaccination consists of two shots given two to four weeks apart.
Symptoms can include:
- coughing
- sneezing
- nasal discharge
- labored breathing
- lethargy
- fever
The canine influenza virus can be spread through direct contact with infected dogs, the air and contaminated hands, clothing and surfaces such as dog food and water bowls. The virus can be destroyed simply by washing clothing, surfaces and hands.
The H3N8 virus can survive on
- surfaces 48 hours
- clothing 24 hours
- hands 12 hours
The same common sense precautions we take to avoid the H1N1 virus and seasonal flu may be all thats needed to safeguard our dogs from the dog flu. Talking with your veterinarian is the best way to stay informed and determine when and if you need to have your dog vaccinated.
See the links below for more detailed information.
Veterinary Clinics
East Ridge Animal Hospital, 60 Dubelbeiss Lane, Rochester, NY is providing the vaccination for users of boarding facilities. Because there are no confirmed cases in the area they are not pushing it to the public but will vaccinate if desired.
Perinton Veterinary Hospital 11 Lasalle Pkwy, Victor, NY giving the vaccine and requires it for boarding as of 11-01-09
Animal Hospital of Pittsford 2816 Monroe Ave, Rochester, NY recommends
Companion Animal Hospital 2800 West Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY recommends and requires for boarding and grooming
Williamson Animal Hospital 4450 Rt 104 Williamson, NY has vaccine
Lyons Veterinary Clinic 1961 State Route 14, Lyons, NY has the vaccine but have not yet decided about requiring it for boarding
Farmington Veterinary Hospital 1400 Beaver Creek Rd Farmington, NY currently not giving the vaccine
Boarding and Dog Day Care
Boom Towne Canine Center 1296 Beaver Creek Rd. Farmington, NY strongly recommends
Wooftown 130 Buell Road Rochester, NY not required at this time
Camp Bow Wow 85 Mushroom Blvd.Rochester, New York not required at this time
Dogs at Play 75-79 Howell Street Rochester, NY not required at this time
AVMA Canine Influenza Fact Sheet
CDC Key Facts about Canine Influenza
USDA Information on Canine Influenza Virus Vaccine
Authors note: The Rochester Dogs Examiner makes no recommendations for or against the CIV vaccination.
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