Worrying About Swine Flu and Dogs
May 4, 2009 by Paris and John
Filed under Health, Tips
We know that other dog lovers, like us, have been wondering if the “Swine Flu” or H1N1 is a risk for their dogs. We didn’t know so we’ve been doing some research.
The answer, according to the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®): the flu appears to present a low risk of infecting cats and dogs.
“At this time there is no data demonstrating any risk of dogs and cats contracting this strain of the virus,” says Dr. Louise Murray, the Director of Medicine at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Hospital in New York City.
If, along with a dog, you also have a pet pig, you’ll want to be extra vigilant, however. Dr. Murray notes, “owners of pet pigs, as well as farmers, should monitor their animal’s health more closely during this outbreak. Steps to limit possible transmission from humans to pigs and vice versa are recommended.”
For more information about swine flu, the ASPCA recommends the following organizations:
For More Information:
- visit www.aspca.org
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