What is Canine Influenza?
Canine Influenza, also known as dog flu, is a very contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by specific influenza viruses known to infect dogs. There are two known strains of the virus: H3N8 and H3N2. There have been no reports of it infecting humans. Since being identified in 2005, it has been detected in dogs across the United States including Los Angeles County. This infection generally does not affect cats.
Symptoms can appear similar to canine cough but it is a different disease. Dogs may exhibit a cough, runny nose, fever, lethargy, eye discharge, and reduced appetite. Not all dogs will show these signs and signs usually do not appear until 2-3 days after exposure. Unfortunately, even dogs without symptoms can be contagious. Canine influenza is more serious than canine cough, there is risk for secondary infections like pneumonia, and it can even be fatal.
Most dogs recover in 2-3 weeks. Antibiotics may be prescribed to limit any secondary bacterial infections. There is already an effective vaccine available that is given in 2 doses several weeks apart.
How is Canine Influenza spread?
Canine influenza is passed between dogs through droplets or aerosols coming from coughing, barking and sneezing. Dogs in close contact with infected dogs are at increased risk of getting the disease.
The virus can also be spread indirectly through objects (e.g., food and water bowls, collars and leashes) or people that have been in contact with an infected dog. It is important to clean and disinfect these objects to avoid exposing other dogs to the virus.
Additionally, people who have been in contact with an infected dog should wash their hands and clean their clothing to avoid spreading the virus.
What does Kennel Club LAX do to protect dogs?
All dogs visiting Kennel Club LAX must be vaccinated against canine influenza. The vaccine (CIV) requires 2 doses separated by a few weeks. Both doses must be completed before visiting.
We’ve implemented extensive cleaning measures to ensure our facility provides a safe and clean environment. Our HVAC system is state-of-the-art and includes active air quality monitoring and cleaning.
We also have the following procedures to
- No toys / personal items from home. We do not allow toys or personal items brought from home into our facility. Food, medicine and treats are allowed.
- No recently sick dogs. Your dog must not have exhibited signs of illness consistent with a respiratory disease within the last 28 days.
- Avoid recent visits to dog parks, boarding facilities, daycares or international travel. Please notify us if your pet must has been exposed to a dog park, boarding facility, daycare or traveled internationally within the last 14 days.
We are committed to your pet’s health, safety and well-being. As a premier provider of boarding and daycare services in Los Angeles, we know you count on us to provide safe and loving services for your pets.
