A recent outbreak of Canine Influenza Virus has been reported in San Francisco. There is concern that dogs in Portland may be at risk due to travel between the cities as well as the highly contagious nature of the disease.
The signs of Canine Influenza are similar to those of Kennel Cough, though they are frequently more severe. Symptoms include non-productive coughing, sneezing, low-grade fever, eye or nasal discharge, and lethargy. In severe cases, labored breathing may be observed and pneumonia may develop. Disease can be spread through direct contact, aerosolized virus, and transmission from contaminated items.
There is no specific treatment for the disease, much as in human influenza. However, just like human disease, canine influenza is very contagious and large outbreaks can shut down grooming and boarding facilities, veterinary hospitals, and daycares for extended periods of time.
The Portland Veterinary Medical Association and the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association have recommended that all at-risk dogs in Portland be vaccinated against both strains of canine influenza in order to prevent a local outbreak. This consists of a series of two shots given 3 weeks apart.
We are recommending that canine patients that frequent dog parks, daycares, boarding and grooming facilities, travel to California, or attend dog shows get vaccinated. In addition to these at risk patients, brachiocephalic breeds (dogs with short faces) and animals that have ongoing medical problems should also be vaccinated. If you are uncertain if you pet falls into these high risk categories, please ask one of our staff.
You can read more about Canine Influenza here:
Influenza Vaccination Clinics
We are having Canine Influenza vaccine clinics by appointment only, the week of Jan. 29th: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 4 to 7 and the week of February 5th: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 4 to 7. These are nurse appointments and you will not see a doctor. This is only for healthy animals that have a current VCPR – Veterinary-Client-Patient-Relationship — seen by one of our doctors in the last year. Animals with chronic medical issues or without an exam in the last year should schedule a normal appointment with one of our veterinarians in order to get vaccinated.