Did you know your pet may be susceptible to the 2009 H1N1 virus?

According to Idexx Reference Laboratories in Westbrook, Maine, the infection has been detected in household pets including ferrets, cats, pigs, birds and most recently, dogs. It is believed pets contract the infection from infected owners.

The symptoms of the H1N1 virus infection resemble those of other common respiratory infections. Signs include coughing, sneezing, fever, lethargy and loss of appetite among others. However, these symptoms may also be the sign of a more serious respiratory disease, including pneumonia.

If your pet is being tested for a respiratory infection, he can now be tested specifically for the H1N1 influenza virus at the same time. Be sure to ask for the test, especially if you have tested positive yourself.

For more information about the H1N1 virus in household pets, consult with your veterinarian or local animal hospital.