Elanco’s Dual-Strain Dog Flu Vaccine Wins USDA Approval

In a major development for pet health and disease prevention, Elanco Animal Health has announced that its TruCan Ultra CIV, a new bivalent canine influenza vaccine, has officially received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The vaccine protects dogs against both major circulating strains of canine influenza virus H3N2 and H3N8, marking a significant step forward in safeguarding the nation’s canine population.

For veterinarians, shelters, and pet owners, this new vaccine offers a much-needed shield against a virus that has disrupted kennels, dog parks, and shelters across multiple U.S. states over the past few years.

The Threat: Dog Flu Is Real and Rising

Canine influenza, commonly known as dog flu, is a highly contagious respiratory infection. Unlike seasonal human flu, it spreads quickly among dogs through coughing, sneezing, or shared surfaces like water bowls and toys.

Two main strains, H3N2 (of Asian origin) and H3N8 (originally equine), have been responsible for multiple U.S. outbreaks since 2015. While most dogs recover with supportive care, severe cases can lead to pneumonia, high fever, and, in rare instances, death.

Outbreaks are particularly concerning in boarding facilities, shelters, and dog daycare centers, where close contact accelerates transmission.

Until now, vaccination strategies required separate doses or single-strain products, which left gaps in protection. That’s where Elanco’s new dual-strain vaccine steps in.

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What Makes Elanco’s TruCan Ultra CIV Different

Elanco’s TruCan Ultra CIV combines protection against both H3N2 and H3N8 influenza strains into a single dose.

Key features include:

• Bivalent protection – Covers both dominant U.S. strains of canine flu.
• Reduced viral shedding – Dogs vaccinated show lower transmission rates, meaning fewer secondary infections.
• Enhanced lung protection – Clinical trials showed a strong antibody response and protection of the respiratory tissue.
• Safe for all breeds and ages – The vaccine is approved for puppies as young as six weeks and for senior dogs.
• Ultra-low volume formula – Only 0.5 mL per dose, making it less stressful and more comfortable for dogs during injection.

According to Elanco’s internal research data shared with regulators, vaccinated dogs displayed a 90% reduction in viral shedding compared to unvaccinated controls. That means less virus in the environment and a lower risk of community spread.

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Expert Opinions

Veterinary experts are welcoming the approval as a major step in canine health management.

“This vaccine gives us the broadest protection available today against dog flu,” said Dr. Laura Hines, a small-animal veterinarian in Chicago, one of the cities that saw large outbreaks in 2023 and 2024. “For dogs that travel, visit daycares, or interact in group settings, this could be the difference between a mild cold and a full-blown outbreak.”

Dr. Hines notes that the vaccine’s dual coverage and proven safety make it a strong recommendation for most social dogs especially those that board or participate in group training.

Shelters are also expected to benefit, as outbreaks in such facilities often lead to quarantines, adoption slowdowns, and significant medical costs.

The Bigger Picture: A Growing Focus on Preventive Pet Care

The approval of TruCan Ultra CIV also reflects a wider trend in the pet health industry: a shift toward preventive medicine.

Pet owners today are more proactive about vaccinations, parasite control, and wellness testing than ever before. According to data from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), vaccination rates for canine influenza rose by over 30% between 2021 and 2024 in major metro areas.

Elanco’s new product arrives at the perfect time, as more states and boarding facilities start requiring proof of dog flu vaccination, similar to rabies and Bordetella requirements.

“Prevention saves lives and money,” says Dr. Kevin Patel, Director of Companion Animal Research at Elanco. “TruCan Ultra CIV reflects our commitment to keeping pets safe and owners confident, especially as canine influenza continues to evolve.”

Availability & Distribution

Elanco confirmed that TruCan Ultra CIV will begin distribution to veterinary clinics and animal hospitals across the U.S. starting in November 2025, with global rollout to follow in early 2026.

Veterinary practices can order the vaccine directly through Elanco distributors. Pricing details have not yet been disclosed, but Elanco representatives stated that the vaccine would be “competitively priced to encourage broad adoption.”

Pet owners interested in vaccination should contact their local veterinarian to discuss whether the dog flu shot is recommended for their pet’s lifestyle and region.

What Dog Owners Should Know

If you’re a dog parent wondering whether your furry friend needs the flu vaccine, here are some practical pointers:

• High-risk dogs: If your pet goes to daycare, grooming salons, dog parks, or boarding kennels, vaccination is strongly advised.
• Travelers: If your dog travels across state lines, especially to large events or shows, flu protection is essential.
• Routine care: The vaccine can be given alongside other core shots, such as DHPP and Bordetella, with minimal interference.
• Mild side effects: Temporary soreness or mild lethargy can occur after vaccination, but serious side effects are rare.

Looking Ahead

The approval of Elanco’s dual-strain canine influenza vaccine is more than a product launch it’s a sign of a maturing, science-driven pet health industry.

As dog ownership continues to rise and pets play ever larger roles in our lives, tools like this ensure that our four-legged family members are protected from preventable diseases.

With continued innovation and public awareness, experts hope dog flu will one day become as manageable and preventable as the human version.

Until then, vaccines like TruCan Ultra CIV are our best defense in keeping tails wagging and kennels flu-free.

For more canine health updates, visit our Pet News page on I AM PET LOVERS.