The safety of the pets in our care always has been and will continue to be our number one priority.
We are aware that there is a media frenzy around the “mysterious dog virus”. We urge you not to be alarmed. We have been in contact with local veterinarians about this “mysterious” illness, and the response we received from each was that there is no need to be alarmed.
None of the vets we spoke with said they have seen any dogs symptomatic of the virus, and they assured us that the vast majority of pets will improve in a matter of days, just like they would from Canine Influenza. The chances your pet will contract or have severe complications from this new disease are rare, and it seems to only temporarily inconvenience otherwise healthy pets.
What Smoochie Pooch is Doing to Keep Your Pet Safe
- We minimize the number of pets in the salon at any given time and encourage pet owners to pick up as soon as possible.
- Every surface is disinfected with Kennelsol after each use. This kills everything from kennel cough, Covid-19 and other viruses.
- Pets do not come in contact with each other while at the salon.
How Pet Owners Can Keep Their Pets Safe
- Keep your pets current on their vaccinations.
- Take your pet for walks outside rather than in a store or dog park where other animals could be unknowingly infected.
- While most boarding facilities do their best to minimize exposure and disinfect, it is an airborne illness. If a dog has not presented symptoms, it could contaminate others. Minimize trips to boarding facilities if possible.
- It is safe to continue visiting veterinary offices and grooming salons so long as they have proper disinfecting policies in place.
- Seek veterinary help if your pet shows unusual symptoms of a respiratory illness.
We take every precaution possible to ensure the safety of your pets. It is extremely important to remember that your pet could get this illness anywhere, as it is an airborne disease. It is also in your pet’s best interest to continue their regular routine grooming needs as that will ensure your pet stays happy and healthy.
Important Things to Remember about Canine Influenza
This dog flu has been around for more than 40 years. Similarly to humans, this time of year tends to be a more vulnerable time for our fur babies to get sick. Symptoms may include a cough, eye or nasal discharge, lethargy, fever, reduced appetite and a higher respiratory rate.
- Viruses can sometimes be deadly. However, in an otherwise healthy animal, Canine Influenza is just like a cold for us. They may feel under the weather for a few days, but they will feel better in no time.
- An animal could be infected and not show any signs or symptoms.
- Canine Influenza is an airborne illness that can be transmitted easily.
- This virus does not spread to cats or humans.
Additional Resources
To learn more about Canine Influenza, please visit the following sources:
Key Facts about Canine Influenza (Dog Flu) – Center for Disease Control
Canine Influenza – American Veterinary Medical Association
