Canine Influenza Vaccine
Due to recent reports of scattered outbreaks of the Canine Influenza Virus, we are now recommending vaccination for some pets. It is our opinion that if your dog is going to be exposed to other dogs in boarding kennels, dog parks, doggie day care, or groomers it may be wise to consider vaccination against the influenza virus. The vaccine requires 2 doses 2 to 4 weeks apart the first time it is administered. Yearly boosters are recommended. If you have questions or wish to arrange an appointment to have your dog vaccinated, please call us at 713-622-2274.
Canine Influenza detected in several states
Canine influenza virus is a recently emergent pathogen of dogs that has caused highly contagious respiratory disease in racing greyhounds, pet dogs and shelter animals. The dog flu virus is currently spreading. Canine influenza is now affecting dogs in Virginia, Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. This virus has been documented as the cause of natural outbreaks of illness in dogs since 2004 when it was discovered in racing greyhounds in Florida. A genetic analysis of canine influenza virus strains isolated during the first outbreak indicated that all eight genes were most similar to those of equine influenza virus of the H3N8 subtype. Canine influenza does not affect people, cats, or other animals. It appears to be fully adapted to and highly contagious among dogs. Clinical signs can resemble those in other tracheobronchitis infections. The most common signs are low fever, cough, lethargy, and nasal discharge that may be either serous or purulent. Some dogs may develop high fever and pneumonia. The case fatality rate is between 1% and 5%.
Rabies Certificates Now Provided to the City of Houston:
If you do not license your pet with the City of Houston, they will now know, and you will be subject to a fine.
Chapter 6 of the City Code of Ordinances requires that all dogs and cats be licensed with the City of Houston Bureau of Animal Regulation and Control (B.A.R.C.) It is the owner's responsibility to register their pets with the city. This ordinance also requires each veterinarian who vaccinates any dog or cat within the city limits to provide a copy of the veterinarian's fully executed rabies vaccination certificate for all animals to the chief of B.A.R.C. Veterinarians who are in violation of compliance are subject to penalty. This means that we will now be sending a copy of your pet's rabies certificate to B.A.R.C. and they will be able to follow up and insure that you have licensed your pet.
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