A Dog Owner’s Guide to Canine Influenza

Canine influenza is a serious risk to pet healthThe arrival of cooler weather also brings the arrival of another less enticing time of year – flu season. While you’re gearing up for sleet and snow, we want to remind dog owners about the dangers of canine influenza (also known as dog flu). Keep reading to learn more about how to protect your pet.

What is Canine Influenza?

 

Canine influenza is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection caused by two influenza strains: H3N2 and H3N8. The H3N2 virus caused a national uproar when it emerged on the scene in 2015. In fact, hundreds of dogs were affected in the Chicagoland area. Both strains were present in birds before mutating and infecting dogs.

Much like human flu, canine influenza is spread through coughing and sneezing and through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as food and water bowls or chew toys. The disease spreads rapidly in areas where dogs tend to congregate, such as dog parks, doggie daycares, grooming salons, and boarding kennels. Continue…

Taking Care of Business: What to do About Bad Breath in Pets

Bad breath in pets is a sign of pet dental disease. Most pet owners are familiar with “doggie breath” or “kitty breath,” but did you know that bad breath in pets can actually be an indication of an underlying health issue? At Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates, we want to help you clear up your pet’s bad breath, while also improving their wellness and longevity!

A Stinky Situation

According to the American Veterinary Dental Association, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by the age of three. Bad breath is one of the first signs that something is amiss. Continue…

Invisible Disabilities: Battling the Service Dog Stigma

Service dog stigma can affect actual service dogs.If you’ve ever seen a service dog helping a visually impaired person or someone in a wheelchair, you probably marveled at the interaction between dog and owner. The dog’s loyalty is heartwarming, and it’s inspiring to see how their services can help people lead more independent lives.

Did you know service dogs can also help people with disabilities that aren’t immediately obvious (also called invisible disabilities), such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Unfortunately, reactions can be quite different when people see someone with a service dog who doesn’t appear to have a disability. This type of service dog stigma can lead to discrimination against handlers who struggle with an invisible disability. Continue…