No dog flu cases reported in Valley, but vets urge awareness

BOARDMAN — Mahoning Valley veterinarians report no incidents of dog influenza but urge pet owners whose pups may be experiencing similar symptoms to take the pet to the vet.

The flu in dogs is similar to that experienced by their owners.

“It’s a hacking cough, which can be a productive cough, bringing up a white foam,” said Dr. Valerie Thorn, a veterinarian at South Mill Pet Care.

The dog may be lethargic and not want to eat. He also could have a runny nose, a fever and, in some cases, vomiting.

“Any time a dog is showing symptoms, you should get them to the vet,” Thorn said.

She hasn’t seen any cases.

A dog-flu outbreak has been reported in Chicago and other parts of the Midwest, closing dog parks and canceling activities.

Dr. Tiffany Preston, a veterinarian at the Poland Veterinary Centre, hasn’t seen any cases either and says there have been no local cases. There have been some suspected cases in Northeast Ohio, but nothing has been confirmed.

“As far as our area goes, there have been no confirmed cases of influenza like in Chicago,” Preston said.

For the complete story, read Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com