fbpx

Check out our new merch today!

April 7, 2015

Canine Flu in Chicago

Spring is in swing here in Chicago. The rain melted all the snow and we’re starting to get beautiful and bright days again Unfortunately, Canine Influenza (CIV) is here too. Chicago is currently experiencing endemic levels of CIV. Of course I got the warning email from my
Spring is in swing here in Chicago.Rhodesian Ridgeback, puppy, chicago, marking our territory

The rain melted all the snow and we’re starting to get beautiful and bright days again

Unfortunately, Canine Influenza (CIV) is here too. Chicago is currently experiencing endemic levels of CIV. Of course I got the warning email from my vet right after a trip to the dog beach.

Rhodesian Ridgeback, puppy, chicago, marking our territory

It was a fun trip, but it will be our last trip for at least a week

Rhodesian Ridgeback, puppy, chicago, marking our territory

Luckily, neither Eko or Penny show any symptoms but per the recommendation of our vet we’ll be keeping clear of communal dog activities

Rhodesian Ridgeback, puppy, chicago, marking our territory

The good news is that with proper care, most pups with CIV can get over the illness and return to perfect health.

The better news is that there is a two-stage CIV vaccination available. There are no guarantees, but the vaccine is highly effective. Eko and Penny are both active and social pups so there was no question in my mind that I’d get it for them. In fact, we’re off to get the first booster right now.

Rhodesian Ridgeback, puppy, chicago, marking our territory

It’s good for him, but that doesn’t mean Eko has to like it

The “ENDEMIC” and “OUTBREAK” headlines made my heart skip a beat, but thanks to a thoughtful and informative email from my vet I’m feeling a lot better about the situation. I’ll feel even more at ease once the pups are vaccinated.

Hopefully with a concerted effort from people with pups and with the support of our vets we can help the Windy City shake this thing. This is my first time experiencing anything like this, so if you have any familiarity with CIV I’d appreciate any perspective you could offer. Thanks!

Follow Us on Instagram

@markingourterritory