|
        
|
In response to the growing concern over West Nile Virus, here is a brief synopsis that may help to answer some questions: - Dogs and cats can carry the virus and most will not show any symptoms. As of now, one dog, one wolf, and three squirrels have died from West Nile. The dog was already immune compromised (had another disease as well), which is most likely the reason it succumbed to the virus. - Humans as well as pets have to be bitten by a misquito in order to get the virus. In other words, dogs and cats can't pass it on to people directly. - As of now, there is no vaccine available for West Nile for dogs. We will inform our canine clients when one does become available. In the meantime, to help prevent mosquito bites, try to avoid walking your pet at dawn and dusk when mosquitos are most active. Contact your veterinarian for recommendations of insect repellent. Do not use products such as Off or Cutter. These products can cause serious side effects in pets. - Remember, the incidence of West Nile in small animals is extremely low, only one dog and one wolf, in the entire US. - Your dog is more likely to get heartworms from a misquito bite
than West Nile Virus.
|