Canine Flu*
Canine flu is a viral infection and symptoms include coughing, nasal/eye discharge, and fever.
If your dog has any of the symptoms described above, please keep them away from other dogs and contact your veterinarian. If your dog has decreased appetite or thirst, is lethargic, or has any difficulty breathing, see a veterinarian immediately.
Just like with human influenza, most who contract the disease will make a full recovery without intervention.
Canine flu is highly contagious, but fortunately, there is a vaccination available to help protect against the current strain of flu virus. The SF SPCA is recommending this vaccine for dogs who are regularly around large groups of other dogs at places like dog parks, daycare, boarding facilities, and group walking.
The vaccine requires two injections, given 2-4 weeks apart, plus an annual booster.