Canine Influenza: a Growing Problem

As if flu season wasn’t rough enough for humans, now some of our four-legged friends are joining us in the misery and adding to our worry. Since at least 2004, when it was first detected, a novel form of dog flu has been making the rounds. Canine influenza virus (CIV) was first reported among dogs (notably racing greyhounds) in Florida. As the disease spread, investigators found that it was a new kind of respiratory illness caused when the equine influenza A H3N8 virus adapted to infect dogs. Equine influenza had been known to cause illness among horses for more than 40 years, but it was the first time it had been found to “jump” from horses to dogs. However, according to Cynda Crawford, DVM, of the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, canine influenza does not infect people, and there is no documentation that cats have become infected by exposure to dogs with CIV.

Accreditation Matters
Why Accreditation Matters to You

Have you seen this plaque in your veterinarian’s lobby? Take a look around the next time you are there. If you don’t see this plaque — ask about it. All of the hospitals accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) are awarded a plaque signifying their completion of an onsite evaluation. The evaluation is conducted by a trained veterinary professional, an AAHA practice consultant. There are nine practice consultants located across the country. The consultant evaluates the hospital — your hospital — on more than 900 industry standards.

Domestic Abuse and Pets: a Strong Link

Domestic violence isn’t just about people. In some families, pets suffer, too.

Sometimes, domestic violence starts with hurting family members and grows to include the family pet. Sometimes, it goes in reverse, with a pet abuser expanding his or her repertoire to include people. In both cases, however, helping pets in domestic violence cases is a very real concern, both to the pet owners and to local law enforcement.

The Big Game Means More Than Football This Year

Your AAHA-accredited hospital is a proud sponsor of Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl VI.

Don’t Traumatize Your Puppy

Puppies, with their wiggly tails and floppy ears, look adorable to us. But to veterinarians, they look more like a blank canvas.

"These are really their formative years,” says Ashley Hughes, DVM, a veterinarian at Friendship Hospital for Animals in Washington, D.C. Puppies form their personality within the first four to six months. "It’s our responsibility to teach them how we want them to be."

Senior Pet Care Spinner Quiz

Do you have a senior pet?