SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said the Sacramento SPCA will participate in a three-year study on canine influenza.

According to the ASPCA, the study is "groundbreaking" and will be conducted by Dr. Miranda Spindel, ASPCA Director of Veterinary Outreach, and Dr. Gabriele Landolt of Colorado State University's Department of Clinical Sciences.

"Canine influenza is a newly emerging disease that does not discriminate by breed or age," Spindel said in a news release. "It is critical that we gain a better understanding of the transmission of CIV in order to limit its effects."

The ASPCA said the highest incidence of canine influenza is found in dogs that are kept in groups, such as shelters.

The study, which is being funded by the Morris Animal Foundation, will help shelters develop testing and methods to "limit the effects of this disease in communities nationwide," according to the ASPCA.