Summit Veterinary Care was founded with a clear purpose: to elevate the veterinary experience through empathy, education, and innovation. From urgent care to preventive wellness, our Fear Free Certified approach ensures that every visit supports your pet emotionally as well as medically.

We’re committed to keeping dogs healthy and safe from preventable diseases — including Canine Influenza Virus (CIV), commonly called “dog flu.” While it’s not always severe, influenza in dogs spreads quickly and can lead to serious complications, especially in puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with underlying health conditions.

What is Canine Influenza?

Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus that causes symptoms similar to kennel cough but can be more severe. There are two main strains in the United States: H3N8 and H3N2, which is why the bivalent vaccine protects against both.

Symptoms of dog flu include:

• Persistent cough
• Sneezing and nasal discharge
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
• In some cases, pneumonia or secondary infections

The virus spreads easily in places where dogs congregate, such as dog parks, boarding facilities, grooming salons, and daycare centers.

Why the Bivalent Vaccine is Important

• Protects against both strains: The bivalent vaccine helps prevent infection from both H3N8 and H3N2 strains.
• Reduces severity: Even if a vaccinated dog contracts influenza, symptoms are often milder and recovery is faster.
• Prevents outbreaks: Vaccinated dogs help limit the spread in communal settings.

Who Should Get the Canine Influenza Vaccine?

• Dogs who attend boarding, daycare, or grooming facilities 
• Dogs that frequently socialize with other dogs
• Dogs traveling to areas with known influenza outbreaks
• Immunocompromised dogs at higher risk for complications

Vaccination Schedule

• Dogs with no prior vaccination: Two initial doses, 2–4 weeks apart
• Booster: Annual vaccination recommended for ongoing protection in at-risk dogs

Your veterinarian will help determine whether your dog’s lifestyle and exposure risk make the CIV vaccine a priority.

At Summit Veterinary Care

We believe in personalized preventive care. Canine influenza is highly contagious, but vaccination — combined with good hygiene, proper socialization, and awareness of outbreaks — dramatically reduces risk.

Protecting your dog from influenza keeps them healthy and helps safeguard the broader dog community. Ask your veterinarian whether the bivalent Canine Influenza vaccine is right for your pet.