Oklahoma animal health officials warn of dog flu

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State animal health officials say they are starting to monitor for a rare form of dog influenza.<br/><br/>State Veterinarian Doctor Becky Brewer says the canine flu was first isolated

Friday, October 14th 2005, 5:52 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State animal health officials say they are starting to monitor for a rare form of dog influenza.

State Veterinarian Doctor Becky Brewer says the canine flu was first isolated in Florida in racing greyhounds two years ago.

Brewer says recent tests have confirmed cases on the East Coast and in Texas, but so far -- no confirmed cases in Oklahoma.

She warned private veterinarians and animal shelters should be on the lookout for signs, including a persistent cough with a low fever.

The flu isn't a danger to humans, but can lead to more serious symptoms in dogs, including pneumonia, high fever and increased respiratory rates. The flu is deadly to about 1 to 5 percent of dogs who develop the more severe symptoms.