CANINE INFLUENZA AWARENESS
We would like to inform you that Minnesota is now seeing breaking cases of canine influenza. There are currently 32 reported cases in Minnesota, 11 of which were reported just in the last week.
About the Disease
Canine influenza is a highly contagious upper respiratory disease that spreads from dog to dog through aerosolization. This virus can also be present on our skin, clothing, toys, pet bedding, bowls, etc.
Of those dogs that become infected with canine influenza, 80% will develop clinical disease, and up to 8% will die due to complications.
Symptoms you should watch for include:
1. Fever
2. Coughing
3. Lack of appetite
4. Rapid breathing
5. Lethargy
**We are HIGHLY recommending that any dog who frequently visits an animal hospital, dog park, boarding facility, groomer, pet store, or doggy daycare be vaccinated.**
Dogs are not born with any natural immunity to this virus, which is why it is so important to vaccinate. This vaccination will need to be boostered one time, 2-4 weeks after the initial vaccination is received. It then takes up to 72 hours after the second vaccine for the pet to achieve strong immunity to Canine influenza.
Please call the office at (763) 434-3933 if you have any questions or simply would like to schedule an appointment to get your pet vaccinated!