A flu outbreak in dogs is spreading, but pet owners can fight it by getting their pets vaccinated. Veterinarians suggest giving your dog a flu shot if you plan on boarding it or taking it to the groomer any time soon.

Like many pet owners like, Rhonda Smallwood, didn't even know the dog flu existed.  "Now I feel incompetent because I didn't know," said Smallwood.

The spike in cases of the potentially deadly disease has her worried about her 2-year-old rescue dog named Jack.  "I have no children, so he is my child," said Smallwood.

Many veterinarians are now requiring all dogs to get a vaccine.   "If your dog goes to a boarding facility, if it's going to be at the groomer, if it goes to doggy daycare, your dog is exposed," said Dr. Tom Vining, with the Meyerland Animal Clinic. 

Vining said the shot is important because the potentially deadly virus has been quickly spreading across the country.  It's been confirmed in 38 states including Texas.

"There have been outbreaks in San Antonio, outbreaks in Forth Worth, and in Beaumont," said Vining.  

His best advice is to go ahead and get your dog vaccinated. The shot costs around $25, but you will need to go back for a second shot about 4 weeks after the first.  One other note, the dog flu does not spread to humans.