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Canine Flu Update

As of November 1, 2022, ALL canine guests of The Farm will be required to be fully vaccinated* against the H3N2 Canine Influenza Virus.

*Fully vaccinated means your dog has received the initial 2 doses of the H3N2 Canine Influenza Vaccine within the previous 12 months; if the initial doses were received earlier than 12 months preceding, he/she has received the booster (an annual requirement) (all as established by veterinary records). Vaccination against H3N8 is NOT required at this time so you may choose the H3N2 vaccine only rather than the vaccine that protects against both strains. According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress Proceeding (2019): “It is questionable whether H3N8 vaccination is required since this virus seems to be very rare (if it is even still circulating”).  

 

We have decided to require the vaccination for ALL dogs staying with us in order to protect those among us who would suffer the gravest of consequences should they become infected with the virus. As is true with any vaccine, the vaccine is NOT a guarantee that your pet will not contract the influenza virus. In fact, it is not uncommon for vaccinated dogs to contract the virus. The benefit of the vaccine is three-fold: (1) to reduce the risk of severe illness (and duration); (2) to help establish herd immunity in hopes of reducing the risk of transmission; and (3) to lessen your dog’s ability to transmit the virus to other dogs.

 

Note: The H3N2 vaccine requires two (2) doses, scheduled three (3) weeks apart. The November 1, 2022 deadline allows our Guests adequate time to be fully vaccinated by that date. It is important for your veterinarian to forward updated vaccination records to The Farm evidencing completion of the 2nd dose. The decision whether or not to vaccinate your dog against the H3N2 Canine Influenza Virus is of course 100% your decision in consultation with your veterinarian. Should you and your veterinarian determine that it is not in your dog’s best interest to receive the H3N2 vaccination for any reason, we 100% respect that decision. The Farm’s obligation to our Guests and their families is to provide the safest environment possible. We believe that this change in our vaccination policy is required to do that to the best of our ability. Accordingly, any requested exception to this policy must be supported by a written statement from your veterinarian addressed to The Farm providing a medical reason for the requested exception and will be considered by management on a case by case basis. Until November 1, 2022, all actions previously taken by The Farm to reduce the possible exposure and spread of the virus will remain in place until all Guests have had the opportunity to be fully vaccinated.