Dogs Can Get the Flu

A dangerous strain of canine influenza is making the rounds, and prompting some dog owners to keep their pets away from other pooches.

So far, this influenza has been spreading fast in the Chicago area. Pet retailer Petco became so alarmed by the outbreak that last week it temporarily shut down its Chicago-area adoption events, dog training and puppy playtime activities – and its Pooch Hotel boarding facilities.

Petco – citing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – said that canine influenza is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by a specific Type A influenza virus.

Pet owners need to be on the lookout for symptoms including a cough, runny nose or fever, (typical flu symptoms).

While this outbreak is concentrated on the Chicago area for now, it could show up in other locations.