Hello to all of my pals. I found this article, well Mommy did actually from the ASPCA and we thought you might find it interesting. I can't stand to think of any of my friends getting sick, but especially to get the piggy sickness. I don't even want to know what would happen. There is a line that Mommy bigified. It says that humans can give it to pigs! Isn't that crazy, I thought they were giving it to us. It turns out we shouldn't be blaming our piggy friends(if you have any) cause it turns out they didn't really make us sick. I hope you all stay healthy.
"1. Can Cats and Dogs Catch Swine Flu?
Pet parents of dogs and cats can relax for now, say ASPCA veterinarians. While the 2009 H1N1 virus—a faster moving and possibly more debilitating strain of influenza than the typical seasonal flu—has become an international concern, the virus, referred to as swine flu when first identified, appears to present little risk of infecting dogs and cats. However, viruses can mutate quickly and taking important preventative measures remains essential.
“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.”
In terms of other animals who are susceptible, Dr. Spindel warns that influenza or flu viruses are occasionally transmitted from people to pigs, and the 2009 H1N1 virus has also been identified in turkeys. Pet parents of Vietnamese Potbellies, African Pygmies and other pet pigs should monitor their animals' health closely, notify their veterinarian of any signs of illness and speak to their veterinarian about influenza type A vaccines. And ferrets are susceptible to most human flu viruses, so pet parents should take extra care to prevent exposure of pet ferrets to people or other ferrets with flu symptoms.
Meanwhile, flu season is upon us and pet parents should take common-sense preventative measures to keep their dogs and cats healthy:
If your dog is exhibiting flu-like symptoms, including coughing, nasal discharge or fever (normal dog and cat temperature is 101 to 102.5 degrees), play it safe and avoid taking him to places like dog parks, where he can pass on germs or come into contact with unvaccinated or sick dogs.
Avoid letting your cat roam freely outside.
If your dog comes into frequent contact with other dogs or is kept in a kennel, the ASPCA recommends that you discuss with your veterinarian whether vaccination against canine influenza may be appropriate. Note:
canine influenza and H1N1 are not the same virus.
Talk to your vet about what flu vaccines are currently available, and be sure all your pets get vaccinated!
Don't let your pet share water bowls, food dishes or toys with other animals.
Make sure your pet is eating, drinking and playing as he normally does each day. If you notice your pet behaving unusually, or if he has flu-like symptoms, check in with your veterinarian immediately. "
licks and sniffs, Sasha
Cheese...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Hi my pals. I am feeling better today. I was pretty sick for a couple of days. The Vet Lady said it was a reaction to the shots and also the infection in my system. Well if the shots were gonna make me sick, why did she give em to me?? I don't know about that shot thing anymore. I am better and back to my old sassy self. Here I am feeling down still. Pay no attention to the back round. I am in a room that is being fixed up and changed and all that.
After that I went back to sleep. For the rest of this post I am going to show you a nice walky I took with my Big Sis before the dreaded haircut and "shots". The first one is a picture of the house where the meanest dog alive lives. Her name is Bridget. I would have Big Sis take a picture of her, but I am afraid the camera would explode with her ugliness and melt and dissolve.
Ok anytime now. My Mom is in there and more important my good girl treat awaits.
Thank you for all of your good wishes, I love you my pals.
Please visit Norwood at http://norwoodunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/08/eyewatch-friday-9-pet-pride.html for Eyewatch Friday. Norwood is way cool. Thanks Norwood
I would like to pass my diamond to Paddy at Sally as a get well present. Paddy was very sick but is better now. Next to Walter at http://walterthepug.blogspot.com/ he is a friend of Tweedles and now of mine who needs some extra attention right now. Now on to a new friend I met on Mango's blog Mango's Great Adventures who needs loving, Max at http://danesview.blogspot.com/. 
