Cat, Dog, Ferret Health Alert H1N1 Flu
Update 12/11/09
China reported that two dogs tested positive for the H1N1. Communication makes it difficult to confirm, but the safeguards below are still recommended if you have sick family members.
To date there have been 3 confirmed cases of cats and 3 confirmed cases of ferrets in Oregon, Utah, and Iowa that have gotten the H1N1 Flu Virus (the human Swine flu), most likely from their owners.
While the numbers of people who have gotten the H1N1 Flu are far greater than animals to date, if a family member becomes sick, it is advisable to use the same normal sanitary precautions to protect your pets that you would use with any other family member.
There is currently no vaccine for the H1N1 Flu for pets.
Sick family members should wash hands frequently, and avoid sneezing or coughing on pets. As difficult as it is, since pets love to cuddle and lick our faces when we are sick, please limit contact with your pets if you are not feeling well.
The cats and ferrets that have been reported to date have shown signs of respiratory illness, including one or more of the following: lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, runny nose and/or eyes, sneezing, coughing, or changes in breathing.
If your pet is showing signs of illness, please call us to schedule an appointment.
Health Alerts
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Ridgewood Office
320 E. Ridgewood Ave.
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
phone: (201) 447-6000
Midland Park Office
70 Goffle Rd.
Midland Park, NJ 07432
phone: (201) 445-0030
Whole Dog Grooming Salon
60 Goffle Rd.
Midland Park, NJ 07432
phone: (201) 447-6222
