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Is it okay to delay my dog's second flu shot booster? How long?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dogs had to get flu shots to be boarded. The first shot (H3N8 + H3N2) of the two shot series was given 3-1-19. Second shot was due 2-3 wks later (some online sites said a month later). Question is, would it be ok to wait until April 27, 2019 to take them for the second shot? Is there a particular reason behind the 2-3 (or 4) week point? Thank you!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on April 8th, 2019

Hi there. In general, it's recommended to give the second booster in 3-4 weeks because this is the optimal window of time for the immune system to respond appropriately. You can't wait too long, or the initial response will have completely died down and the booster won't be effective. It's generally okay to wait up to 6 weeks to give the booster if needed, but I wouldn't recommend waiting longer than that. Waiting until April 27th would likely be pushing it a bit, so I would try to get her in within the 6 week window if possible.
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