Beginning September 1st we will be requiring all of our furry members to have the Canine Flu vaccines before coming to Canine Country Club.

We made this decision after much deliberation and research with fellow competitors and our local veterinary community. As of right now there are not any confirmed cases of Canine Influenza in the state of Arkansas. However, cases have been reported in all of our surrounding states.

So what is Canine Flu? It is much like Kennel Cough in terms of symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, mucus nasal discharge and foamy vomit. However, symptoms for Canine Flu are more severe and can last for up to 21 days. Typical progression of symptoms is 2-5 days from exposure, and a dog may continue to shed the virus for 7 days after becoming infected. Also like Kennel Cough, Canine Flu is highly contagious.

If these symptoms appear please contact your vet immediately. They will have to test to see if it is indeed the flu or kennel cough. Your vet may prescribe antibiotics to help ward off any other potential infections while your dog’s immune system is compromised.

Two strains of the Flu have been identified, H3N2 and H3N8, and we require our members to be vaccinated for both. There is a combination vaccine available so please check with your vet to make sure they carry it. If not, you will have to vaccinate separately for both strains. Please be aware there is a booster that must follow 3 weeks after initial vaccine.

At Canine Country Club of Arkansas we make the safety and health of our furry members our top priority. Our members will have until Tuesday, November 21 to complete the vaccines before the holiday season begins.

Thank you in advance for your understanding. If you have any questions please feel free to give us a call at 501-868-7297.