660News Pet Talk
Posted Mar 26, 2014 10:23 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Last week we talked about fatal H-1-N-1 in cats — but could your dog get the flu?
The short answer is ‘yes,’ but the good news is it’s very unlikely.
Calgary C.A.R.E. Centre Medical Director Dr. Danny Joffe says there is a canine influenza called H-3-N-8.
It does not go to people.
“It’s seen with not common frequency but it is seen in the United States. It has not been documented in Canada but it is something that may eventually rear its head in Canada,” says Dr. Joffe.
He still recommends people handling pets take proper handwashing precautions when the person is sick.
“Influenza does change and so we will again have to keep our eyes and ears open as the influenza story develops.”
There is a vaccine available, which is an especially good idea if you’re travelling with your dog.
