Veterinarians throughout Northern Illinois are encouraging dog owners to have their pets vaccinated against this virus. Here's more.

 

Here's something I was not aware of concerning my dogs. Veterinarians throughout Northern Illinois are encouraging dog owners to have their pets vaccinated against the dog flu, which is extremely contagious.

The vaccine is a simple shot and a quick office visit that, after about two weeks, can keep your dog pretty safe from catching the dog flu.

Bruce Bennett, Getty Images
Bruce Bennett, Getty Images
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According to ABC 7 Chicago, "The virus is airborne, so dogs who breathe in the germs from an infected dog can catch it. Those dogs at risk are the dogs who spend a lot of time around other dogs. Unlike in humans, dog flu is not seasonal. Canines can catch it any time of the year, in any place".

Believe it or not, even in outdoor facilities, dogs come into contact with each other and can spread the virus. Seems the dog flu typically lasts a couple weeks, and is harder on older dogs than puppies.

If you have any questions, be sure to ask you local Vet to get more details. So if your dog is acting sick for a long period of time, and you know it is not something they ate, check into it.

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