Veterinarians urge caution after 2nd dog flu case

Posted on May 3, 2016
Animal Control
McLean County Animal Control reports two cases of canine influenza in McLean County. (Eric Stock/WJBC)

By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – A second case of canine influenza – or dog flu – has been confirmed in McLean County.

Veterinarian Eric Nord with McLean County Animal Control said there are also two more possible cases of the virus that can easily be spread among dogs, but he’s not calling for drastic steps.

“We don’t want to disrupt normal lives, but we do want people to be aware that there is this virus that’s out there,” Nord said. “It is pretty virulent. If you have a dog that’s showing signs, please don’t take them to those public situations.”

Nord said If their dog is showing symptoms – coughing, loss of appetite and lack of energy, take them to the vet, but he says leave the dog in the car at first so you don’t spread the virus more.

“Let’s just be proactive about things,” Nord said.

Nord acknowledged there is no official reporting agency for these figures, so there could be more.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].

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