Man's best friend now has its own version of a flu shot.
Canine flu is spreading across the country and now there is a vaccine for it. The flu was discovered at greyhound tracks in 2004 and has since spread to 30 states. There have not been any cases of canine flu reported in Oklahoma.
But, at Woodland West Animal Hospital, their bright sign tells dog owners this is the place to get their pets vaccinated. The animals must get a series of two shots spread two weeks apart and must get a booster shot every year.
"I think it's not something we should be worried about but we should be alert for," says Dr. Mike Jones. "We haven't seen it in Oklahoma yet, but we've seen it in 30 states all around us. It probably is just a matter of time before we do see it."
He says the canine flu shots cost thirty dollars each. And, if you travel a lot with your pets or put them in kennels a lot you might consider the canine flu shots.
Dogs with the canine flu have a fever, runny nose and are lethargic. But, you don't have to worry. Dogs can't give canine flu to humans.
Traavis Larson is looking at boarding his dog, Molly, while he goes on vacation. He says he'll probably vaccinate his dog.
"It will be a precautionary measure," he says. "Worth it, too by all means."
Warmie
