What Dog Owners Need to Know.

• Position: CANINE FLU - Brief article

Canine flu is highly contagious, as this influenza spreads quickly from animal to animal through particles in the air. Dogs in close contact at areas such as parks, dog shows, grooming parlors, and kennels may be most at risk.

Doctors at BluePearl Veterinary Partners, Tampa, Fla., point out that canine flu can make dogs quite ill, so pet owners should take steps to educate themselves about how to prevent it. Symptoms include sneezing, fever, nasal discharge, decreased appetite, and general lethargy. In rare cases, it can lead to pneumonia and difficulty breathing.

"Canine flu is usually not life-threatening, but it is very contagious," says Beth Davidow, director of Medical Quality. "If you see these symptoms, it is very important to keep your dog away from other dogs and to contact your veterinarian."

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