WEST PALM BEACH — Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control, a division of the Public Safety Department, wants to remind pet owners about the importance of keeping pets current on vaccinations and helping to stop the spread of contagious diseases. A private animal shelter within the community has an active outbreak of canine influenza in their dog population. Six reported cases of the virus are also reported in privately owned dogs within Palm Beach County.

Canine Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease affecting dogs of any age. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge, which can often escalate and turn into pneumonia. The virus is spread by direct contact with a sick dog, or direct contact with the contaminated environment. If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, they should be taken to a private veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment; please note, there are other respiratory illnesses with similar symptoms that are not influenza.

How can you protect your pet?

• Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have your dog vaccinated for canine influenza.
• Limit your dog’s interaction with other dogs in the community (socially distance).
• If your pet becomes sick, quarantine them from other pets in the household and community.
• Talk to your veterinarian about a proactive plan to keep your pet happy and healthy.