Flu Vaccines for Dogs in Brooklyn, NY
Understanding Canine Influenza in Brooklyn: Types, Transmission, Symptoms
At The Vet Set in Carroll Gardens, we understand that a sudden cough or fever in your dog can be alarming. Canine influenza (often called “dog flu”) is caused by specific influenza A viruses. In the U.S., two main strains have been documented: H3N8 (historically) and H3N2 (currently more prevalent).
- H3N8 – A strain derived from equine influenza that jumped to dogs; first documented in U.S. racing greyhounds around 2004.
- H3N2 – An avian‑origin influenza A virus that began circulating in dogs in Asia and was first identified in U.S. dogs in a 2015 outbreak in Chicago.
How Canine Influenza Spreads
- Respiratory droplets are expelled during coughing, sneezing, or barking (aerosol or droplet transmission).
- Indirect contact via fomites (contaminated bowls, toys, leashes, collars, bedding, grooming equipment).
- Close-contact settings such as kennels, shelters, dog daycare, grooming salons, dog parks, and other areas where dogs congregate.
Common Symptoms
- Cough (can be wet or dry), which may persist for 1–3 weeks or even longer.
- Sneezing, nasal discharge, or clear to thick mucus.
- Fever (often in the range of 104–105°F / 40–40.5°C).
- Lethargy, weakness, and reduced appetite.
- In more severe cases: labored breathing, secondary bacterial pneumonia, or worsening respiratory distress.
Timeline and Contagion
- Incubation period: Generally less than one week, often 2–3 days.
- Pre‑symptomatic transmission: Dogs may begin shedding virus (and be contagious) before clinical signs appear.
- Shedding / contagious period:
- H3N8: typically shed for ≤ about 1 week following infection.
- H3N2: shedding may extend for 2–4 weeks (in documented cases from 13 to 24+ days), and intermittent shedding may occur.
- Because of this variability, dogs infected with H3N2 are often isolated for ≥ 21 days.
Contact Us
Zoonotic Risk & Cross‑Species Transmission
- To date, no confirmed case of CIV infecting humans has been documented, and canine influenza is considered a low public health risk.
- However, because influenza viruses can evolve and reassort, ongoing surveillance is important.
- H3N2 CIV has been shown to infect cats under certain conditions, so sick dogs should be kept separated from other pets.
Prevention, Early Recognition & Vaccination
- Early detection of symptoms and prompt isolation are key in limiting spread.
- Vaccination (inactivated CIV vaccines) does not guarantee full protection, but reduces disease severity, duration, and viral shedding.
- Vaccines are typically given in a two‑dose series (2–4 weeks apart), with protection building ~2 weeks after the second dose.
- Annual booster vaccinations are recommended for dogs at risk (those in boarding, daycare, shows, dog parks).
- Contact The Vet Set to determine if the canine influenza vaccine is appropriate for your dog’s lifestyle and risk profile.
Vet Set’s Canine Influenza Vaccination Services
At The Vet Set, your dog’s vaccine plan is tailored to age, history, and lifestyle, right here in Carroll Gardens. Here’s what to expect for protection against H3N8 and H3N2 where indicated.
- Vaccine Formulation
- All products used are USDA-licensed and discussed with you before administration.
- Customized Vaccination Schedule
- Initial series: two doses, 2–4 weeks apart.
- Booster: typically every 12 months thereafter.
- Timing tailored to age, prior vaccines, travel/boarding, and exposure risk.
Pre-vaccination Check
Before Administering Any Vaccine, We Perform a Head-to-tail Check:
- Brief physical exam and health screening.
- Review of medical history and current medications.
- Discuss recent exposure risks (boarding, daycare, parks).
- Additional tests only as indicated by your veterinarian.
Bundle and Save Time
Combine With Other Preventive Services (When Appropriate):
- Bordetella vaccination (a non‑core vaccine often required for boarding, daycare, or group social settings)
- DA2PP (core) vaccination or booster — as scheduled by your veterinarian based on age, health, and exposure risk
- Wellness bloodwork (routine screening)
- Dental evaluation or cleaning, when indicated by your dog’s oral health
Clinic Safety and Comfort
- Exam rooms cleaned between appointments.
- Separation of healthy and sick pets whenever possible.
- Gentle, positive handling to reduce stress.
Getting your dog started is as easy as booking an appointment. We’ll walk you through every step, answer your questions, and make sure your pup leaves feeling top-notch.
Post-Vaccination Care: Managing Mild Reactions & Keeping Protection on Track
After your dog’s flu shot, we’ll explain what to watch for at home and when to check in with us. If you have questions or notice anything unusual, call 917-909-1733 and our team will advise next steps.
Common Mild Reactions
- Soreness or swelling at injection site
- Transient lethargy or reduced appetite
- Mild fever (note: many dogs’ normal temperature is up to 102.5°F).
At-home Monitoring Tips
- Check injection site daily for redness or heat
- Limit vigorous play for 24 hours
- Offer fresh water and a light meal; appetite typically returns within a day
- Wash hands after handling other dogs; avoid sharing bowls or toys with non-household dogs for a day
When to Call Us
- Symptoms worsen or persist beyond 48 hours
- High fever (104°F or higher), collapse, or difficulty breathing
- Possible allergic reaction: hives, repeated vomiting/diarrhea, facial swelling.
Scheduling Boosters and Follow-up
- Plan for a booster about every 12 months after the initial series (your Vet Set doctor will confirm timing).
- It’s efficient to combine boosters with other preventive care.
- Ask us to help you book the next visit before you leave
Book Your Dog’s Flu Vaccine Appointment Today
At The Vet Set in Carroll Gardens, we understand the realities of city life with dogs, daycare, dog parks, grooming visits, and lots of social time. Canine influenza (dog flu) can spread quickly in busy neighborhoods, but proactive vaccination and smart biosecurity go a long way. Our team tailors flu vaccine schedules, performs thorough wellness checks, and offers ongoing guidance so your dog stays protected year-round, from the first series through annual boosters.
Join hundreds of Brooklyn pet parents who trust The Vet Set for caring, practical flu prevention. Your dog’s health is just a click or call away.