WE ARE OFFERING A VACCINATION CLINIC TO PROTECT YOUR DOG FROM CANINE INFLUENZA. 

Canine Influenza is now in Ohio!   Here are some facts regarding Canine Influenza (CIV):  

à  Canine Influenza is highly contagious.  Virtually all dogs become infected with the first exposure.  This is because the virus is relatively new and dogs have no natural immunity to it. 

à  It is easily spread from dog to dog.  There is a higher risk for dogs in adoption centers, shelters, and boarding facilities. 

à  About 80% of exposed dogs will show signs of infection.  Even dogs that don’t show signs can spread the virus to other dogs. 

à  A vaccine is now available for the Canine Influenza Virus H3N8.

 

The H3N8 virus has existed in horses for more than 40 years.  Scientists first identified this virus in dogs in 2005 when a number of Greyhounds at a Florida racetrack become ill.  It was determined that the virus had crossed species from horses to dogs.  Currently 30 states including Ohio have reported cases of canine influenza.  

 

Both Bordetella and the influenza virus have symptoms that mimic one another. Symptoms of the flu include persistent coughing, dry cough, low grade fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy, and loss of appetite.  In about 20% of the cases, more severe symptoms can occur including high fever and pneumonia.  A small number of dogs with the virus have died from complications of
the disease. 

 

You can protect your dog from this disease.  A vaccine has recently become available and Wellington Veterinary Clinic recommends vaccinating dogs that are around other dogs, such as dogs that are boarded, groomed, attend Playcare, dog shows, dog parks, or training classes. 

 

We are offering two Canine Influenza Vaccination Clinics in November to protect your dog from canine influenza:

1.       November 16^th from 1:00pm to 5:00pm

2.       November 23^rd from 1:00pm to 5:00pm

 Please call ahead for an appointment.   

Dogs must receive two vaccines, 2-4 weeks apart. The first vaccine is given by a veterinarian at a reduced exam fee.  The second vaccine can be given by one of our registered veterinary technicians 2-4 weeks after the first vaccine.  A yearly vaccine is then necessary. 

 

Of course, you can always get the vaccine during a regular appointment, but the reduced exam fee will not apply.

  

Please refer to the following links for more information and frequently asked questions regarding canine influenza:

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/canine

http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp

www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-canine-flu-question-and-answer.html