05/16/2023
We want to take a moment to give an update on the suspected canine influenza outbreak in the Twin Cities area. The Minnesota Board of Animal Health has released more tips for dog owners, veterinary professionals, and dog care facilities, as four more cases of canine influenza have been confirmed in the Twin Cities area outside of the original outbreak that was reported earlier this month.
To be clear, as of now, this activity is all related to the Twin Cities area. We have no reason to believe TCHS dogs have been exposed, but we are still taking precautions to keep everyone healthy and safe. Some of those precautions include emphasizing our already conscientious cleaning and sanitizing protocols and being selective about intakes from certain geographical areas. (If you visit TCHS, please be careful to NOT stick hands in kennels and be diligent about sanitizing!)
Here are the tips that the Minnesota Board of Animal Health released for dog owners in the Twin Cities (or anyone who might be bringing their dog to that area for a visit – it’s good general guidance no matter where you live!):
• Avoid direct dog-to-dog contact with dogs outside of your household or dogs known to have been boarded, attended dog day-care, or visited a dog park in the last seven days.
• If your dog is sick, keep them at home, away from other animals, and call your veterinarian.
• Consider avoiding dog parks and other locations with uncontrolled dog-to-dog contact.
• Keep your distance (six feet) at places where dogs congregate like dog parks and while on walks with your dog.
• Canine influenza can also spread via contaminated surfaces, including skin and clothing. If your dog is sick or you have contact with dogs outside of your household, wash your hands and change clothes before interacting with other animals.
Read more here: https://tinyurl.com/3xu2ut56
320-252-0896
www.tricountyhumanesociety.org