IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING CANINE INFLUENZA VACCINATIONS

Dear loyal customer,

The health and safety of your pups is always a top priority at Lucy’s Doggy Daycare & Spa. A new strain of canine influenza called H3N2 has now made its way to Texas (in addition to the previous H3N8 strain). While Lucy’s has NOT received any reported cases of influenza, Lucy’s is recommending that any dog that comes in contact with other dogs be vaccinated against BOTH strains. Much like doctor recommendations for children in school, dogs that go to boarding and daycare facilities, groomers, dog parks, etc. should all be vaccinated.

As such, Lucy’s will now be requiring the canine influenza vaccine and follow-up booster (2-4 weeks after initial vaccine) that protects against both H3N2 and H3N8 effective October 1, 2017. Due to the booster requirement as well as a 5-day related wait period, the initial vaccine would need to be administered by August 26, 2017 to meet the October 1, 2017 deadline. All dogs must have completed both the initial vaccine AND booster in order to use Lucy’s boarding, daycare and grooming services.  Although August 26th is the latest administered date, for any October 1st reservations, we do recommend immediate inoculation in an effort to reduce your pups’ susceptibility to the virus.

Please note: Symptoms of canine influenza often mimic other common upper respiratory infections. The most common symptom is a cough that persists for 10-21 days despite treatment. Dogs may have a soft, moist cough or a dry hacking cough similar to “kennel cough.” Discharge from the eyes or nose, sneezing, lethargy, or decrease in appetite may also be seen. Many dogs develop a secondary bacterial infection causing high fever and nasal discharge, or even pneumonia. If your dog shows any of these symptoms please contact your veterinarian immediately.

For more information about the canine influenza virus, please visit these websites: American Veterinary Medical Association’s CIV FAQ or University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.  For any additional questions, please contact our Operations and Customer Experience Manager Mike Kiper at 210-639-9616.  

Thank you for your continued support of Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa while we work to insure the safest environment for your pups!