H1N1 and Your Pets (Really!)
posted by: Aimee Gertsch 44 days ago
The H1N1 virus has everyone concerned, and with good cause. Luckily, it appears that the virus won't pose a big risk to dogs and cats. It can spread to other pets however, such as turkeys and pigs. You should also be careful if you have a pet bird as they have sensitive respiratory systems that are susceptible to other human illnesses (such as colds.)
“Many species can become infected with influenza viruses, but the current 2009 H1N1 virus, which is a mixture of genetic material from different species, has not been identified in animal populations in the United States to date,” says Dr. Miranda Spindel, Director of ASPCA Veterinary Outreach. “These viruses are notoriously unpredictable, though, and it is important that we remain vigilant.”
It is still important to pay attention to your pets however, as the virus could mutate. What can you do to make sure your pet stays safe? Here are some suggestions:
Ask your vet about vaccinations for your pets. Keep your cat indoors, or keep a close eye if you let them outside. Just like in people, pets spread germs through saliva, so avoid sharing bowls and toys with other animals. Keep an eye on your dog/cat to make sure they are behaving normally. If you do notice that they may not be feeling well (not eating, drinking, playing as usual), check with your vet right away.
If you are feeling flu symptoms, you may want to limit contact with your pet until you are feeling well again. Even though the spread of the virus is unlikely between human and most animals, it's still better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health of your pet. Do you have suggestions for other pet-lovers? Comment please.
To learn more, please visit the ASPCA's official statement on swine flu.
Read more:
“Many species can become infected with influenza viruses, but the current 2009 H1N1 virus, which is a mixture of genetic material from different species, has not been identified in animal populations in the United States to date,” says Dr. Miranda Spindel, Director of ASPCA Veterinary Outreach. “These viruses are notoriously unpredictable, though, and it is important that we remain vigilant.”
It is still important to pay attention to your pets however, as the virus could mutate. What can you do to make sure your pet stays safe? Here are some suggestions:
Ask your vet about vaccinations for your pets. Keep your cat indoors, or keep a close eye if you let them outside. Just like in people, pets spread germs through saliva, so avoid sharing bowls and toys with other animals. Keep an eye on your dog/cat to make sure they are behaving normally. If you do notice that they may not be feeling well (not eating, drinking, playing as usual), check with your vet right away.
If you are feeling flu symptoms, you may want to limit contact with your pet until you are feeling well again. Even though the spread of the virus is unlikely between human and most animals, it's still better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health of your pet. Do you have suggestions for other pet-lovers? Comment please.
To learn more, please visit the ASPCA's official statement on swine flu.
Read more:
THE VACCINE:
Swine Flu Vaccine: What to DO?
H1N1 Vaccine - Tested In Animals First
Safety Concerns Swirl Around H1N1 Vaccine
PREVENTION:
Keep Swine Flu Out Of Your House
Swine Flu Symptoms & Prevention
Swine Flu: The Single Best Way to Prevent Illness
Swine Flu: Can Cinnamon Fight It?
IMPACT:
H1N1 A Challenge For Working Mothers
Toxic Pollution And The Swine Flu Vaccine
The Experts: Swine Flu (H1N1) Experts And Bill Maher On The Vaccine And Managing Your Risk
Read more: pets, flu, animal welfare, swine flu, h1n1, pet health
comments
My only concern for my pets is what will happen to them should I die from this or some other cause. Everyone who has animals should have some back-up Just In Case, including a card in their wallet advising emergency personnel that they have pets and the name and phone number of someone to care for them.
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No way No I'm not getting the shot so neither are my pets!!
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Well said, Deb H.! NO more vaccinations for our pets. The Swine Flu vaccine has not been proven safe for people and yet the author suggests vaccinating our pets?? The "seasonal" flu vaccine is another way for big pharma to make more money! This year's flu vaccine is outdated as it's made from last year's flu strain -- and as we all know -- the flu virus mutates a little each year. Just beef up your immune system and practice preventive measures such as frequent hand-washing and avoiding people who have the flu. As for pets, do the same -- provide plenty of clean water, a good nutricious diet (free of grains, by-products, etc.) and give them immune boosting herbs and supplements.
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Just find yourself an expert & experienced *classical* homeopathic veterinarian (many work via phone so don't need to live in your area at all) & help your animal companions naturally overcome any maladies, w/o doing them any MORE harm by vaccinating them.
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Are already available vaccines for dogs? I don´t think so...
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While H1N1 won't affect dogs and cats, there is another concern for dog owners...The “canine influenza virus”, an influenza A H3N8 influenza virus (not a human influenza virus) that was originally an equine (horse) influenza virus. This virus has spread to dogs and can now spread between dogs. A two part series of vaccinations (given 2-4 weeks apart) is now becoming available across the country.
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I just pray my husband doesn't bring it home to me & my animals. I have COPD and am not getting the shot. Just don't feel safe about it.
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