ASPCA says little risk of swine flu to pets

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said there is little risk of cats and dogs contracting swine flu.

Their entire press release can be seen here.

To date, only humans have been affected by the new A/H1N1 virus, and it is unknown whether the virus will impact other animals. Although the virus is being termed "swine flu," researchers have not confirmed that this new strain evolved in pigs and are working to determine more about its origins.

"At this time there is no data demonstrating any risk of dogs and cats contracting this strain of the virus," says Dr. Louise Murray, the Director of Medicine at the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Hospital in New York City. "However, owners of pet pigs, as well as farmers, should monitor their animal's health more closely during this outbreak. Steps to limit possible transmission from humans to pigs and vice versa are recommended."

People who own Vietnamese Potbellies, African Pygmies and other pet pigs should know there are Influenza type A vaccines available for healthy swine.

And the ASPCA recommends keeping pet pigs and swine farms isolated from any public exposure that might put them at risk for illness.