Flu Shots for Your Dog...You Betcha!

Dogs are known to get the flu just the same way as people. Reports have been surfacing the media outlets such as the New York Times that many dog owners are more concerned now than ever for their pet. Considering the concern that people have over the Swine Flu, it now is making more awareness that dogs too get the flu. H3N8 as it is known is a flu that a dog can get from contact from another dog. This is also known as Kennel Cough which was first discovered in 2004. It is a contagious respiratory infection that includes; coughing, runny nose and fever....sound familiar? Currently the flu is in more than 30 states and it occurs year round. The most likely places for your dog to catch H3N8 is where there are a lot of dogs in one location such as; kennels, boarding facilities, and shelters. The Department of Agriculture just approved of a influenza vaccine in May, 2009. It is manufactured by Plough Animal Health Corp. Check with you vet for fees on this shot. If you want more information on this illness, go to www.NewYorkTimes.com
Photo, JoAnna Levenglick