Animal Health Board: Skip dog parks to stop spread of canine flu in Minnesota
ST. LOUIS PARK, Minn. – The state is asking pet owners to stay away from dog parks, and watch closely for canine influenza symptoms.
The Minnesota Board of Animal Health (MBAH) says four more cases of canine flu have been confirmed, with one dog dying from the virus. But the spread is almost certainly worse.
"Four cases may not seem like a lot, but I think it's the tip of the iceberg in that this virus is certainly spreading through our dog community, and the Twin Cities metro area in particular," said Dr. Veronica Bartsch, senior veterinarian with the MBAH.
MORE: Animal Humane Society says quarantine over canine flu to remain until at least mid-May
Dr. Bartsch says testing for canine flu is expensive and unreliable, so they're asking dog owners and shelters to be guard dogs against the spread.
"Perhaps they should consider not going to high-risk situations, like dog parks, where we have uncontrolled dog-to-dog contact," she said.
That recommendation is coming as a surprise to many at Lake of the Isles Dog Park in Minneapolis.
"I didn't realize that they were advising against that. I guess it might be nice to have a sign like at the dog park where we're all gathering," said dog owner Chris Borger.
A spokesperson for the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board tells WCCO News they have no plans on closing dog parks unless they're instructed to by the MBAH. However, they are looking into post signage informing people about the canine flu.
Dog owners say they'll do whatever they need to to keep their fur babies safe.
Canine flu shots are expensive and tough to come by. The MBAH says you should quarantine your dog for 30 days if they're sick.
Kennels and shelters are supposed to increase cleaning and screening.
