Canine Influenza: What Pet Owners in Sacramento Need to Know
How is Canine Influenza Spread?
Canine influenza is highly contagious and spreads quickly between dogs. It can be passed through direct nose-to-nose contact, or by aerosolized droplets from coughing, sneezing, and barking. These droplets can land on food and water bowls, leashes, collars, kennels, or even on your clothing and hands.
The virus can survive:
Up to 48 hours on surfaces
24 hours on clothing
12 hours on hands
The incubation period (the time between exposure and showing symptoms) is usually 2–4 days, and dogs are most contagious during this time—even before symptoms appear. Infected dogs may continue to shed the virus for up to 21 days, which is why the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends a minimum 21-day isolation period for exposed or symptomatic dogs.
Nearly all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected, but only about 80% show symptoms. The other 20% remain asymptomatic carriers, silently spreading the disease. Fortunately, there is no evidence that canine influenza can spread to people.
Symptoms of Canine Influenza
Canine influenza typically presents in two forms: mild and severe.
Mild cases may include:
Persistent cough (up to 30 days)
Sneezing and nasal discharge
Watery eyes
Lethargy and reduced appetite
Severe cases may lead to pneumonia, with symptoms such as:
High fever
Green or yellow nasal discharge
Labored breathing or rapid respiratory rate
Severe lethargy and loss of appetite
Though rare, the severe form of canine influenza can be life-threatening.
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with Watt Avenue Pet Hospital for evaluation and treatment.
How is Canine Influenza Diagnosed?
Diagnosis may include:
Blood testing: Two samples taken 2 weeks apart to measure antibodies.
PCR testing: Nasal or throat swabs collected within the first 3 days of illness.
Treatment Options
Because canine influenza is viral, there is no direct cure. Treatment focuses on supportive care, including:
Antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections
Fluids to prevent dehydration
Hospitalization in severe pneumonia cases
Prevention: The Canine Influenza Vaccine
The best protection is vaccination. At Watt Avenue Pet Hospital, we provide the bivalent canine influenza vaccine (H3N8 and H3N2).
We recommend vaccination for dogs who:
Visit boarding or grooming facilities
Go to dog parks or playgroups
Attend training or dog shows
Travel within or outside California
The vaccine is given as an initial two-dose series, spaced 2–4 weeks apart, followed by annual boosters. Optimal protection occurs two weeks after the second vaccine.
Vaccine details at Watt Avenue Pet Hospital:
$28 at vaccine clinics (Wednesdays and Saturdays)
If a yearly exam is due: Exam $35 + Vaccine $28
Booster required 3 weeks later
Watt Avenue Pet Hospital Recommendations
All dogs who socialize with other dogs should receive this vaccine annually.
All puppies should be vaccinated by 4 months of age.
Second dose should be administered at least 2 weeks before boarding, grooming, or group activities.
Learn More
Protect your dog from canine influenza — schedule a vaccination or wellness exam with Watt Avenue Pet Hospital today.
