When the 2009 Swine Flu first hit the mainstream news, it was believed that the virus could not infect domesticated animals even though the disease originally started with a strain of influenza that lived within pigs. But in October 2009, the American Veterinary Medical Association confirmed that a pet ferret came down with the disease after its owner had been sick. And in November 2009 a case of the H1N1 virus was found in a cat, again contracting the disease after its owners had been ill.
Can Dogs Get Swine Flu?
The simple answer is yes. Domesticated animals such as dogs that live indoors and in close proximity with their owners, have an increased chance of being exposed to the virus. There have been no confirmed cases of dogs infected with the H1N1 virus so far, but that's not to say that it can't happen. Swine Flu is transmitted from person to person through coughing or sneezing and can just as easily be passed to animals. It's possible that some dogs are already infected with the H1N1 Virus but just haven't been diagnosed as such yet. Part of the difficulty in diagnosis is that dogs currently have their own flu virus going around (H3N8) which have the same symptoms as the swine flu.
What are the Symptoms of Flu in Pets?
Swine Flu symptoms in dogs are very similar to human symptoms. Look for lethargy, fever, runny nose, loss of appetite, sneezing, coughing and respiratory problems. The onset of the virus can take up to a few days after being exposed. Pay very close attention if the pet has come into contact recently with someone who has been diagnosed with the 2009 H1N1 Flu.
How to Prevent My Dog From Getting H1N1?
Common human hygiene techniques should be practiced when handling and caring for your pets. Wash hands frequently. If someone is ill in the family, limit his contact with the dog. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends covering the nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing or coughing. Also avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth as germs are spread more quickly that way.
H1N1 Vaccination for Dogs
There is not an H1N1 Vaccine for dogs. There is a vaccine for the H3NB flu virus which is more prevalent in dogs. This is different than the human vaccine so only get pets vaccinated by a local veterinary office. Most vets have a good supply of the vaccine. Cost is around $20.00 for the first booster and the pet will need a follow up booster in about three weeks that is another $20.00. The vaccine will be good for one year. So call today to schedule an appointment to get those pets vaccinated.
Sherry Jackson - My articles have been featured in InfoWorld Magazine, Entrepreneur.com, USA Today, Jetsetter.com, Bootsnall.com, Gadling and many ...
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