News
Canine Influenza in the Chicago Area
"Dog flu" is going around Chicagoland. The symptoms look very much like kennel cough, but this is a different bug. There is currently no vaccine for this condition. It is generally not life threatening, but it is very contagious. It is spread by breathing the same air or coming in contact with any type of body fluids from a sick dog. Dogs can catch this anywhere that an infected dog is or has been (i.e., dog parks and beaches, shelters, kennels...even sidewalks other dogs have been on). Owners of very young, very old, or already sick dogs need to be especially careful.
According to Rachel Fluegge, DVM, with My Vet Animal Hospital in Chicago (773-235-8387): "Owners should look for the dry hacking cough. This is usually the first sign." She recommends not waiting to see if the dog gets better on its own since this can turn into pneumonia, a more dangerous condition. Also, she recommends avoiding dog parks during peak times like weekends and evenings.
For more information about Canine Influenze in Chicago, check out the following articles:
- http://cbs2chicago.com/health/dog.flu.canine.2.748035.html
- http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-dog-flu-web-jun14,0,5063594.story
- http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_guidelines.asp
10th Annual Dog Sports Open
The 2008 Dog Sports Open will be held August 16-17, in St. John's, Michigan. The Dog Sports Open is a competition that includes agility, obedience, and personal protection. Visit the DSO website for more information including rules, directions, and information on nearby pet-friendly hotels.
PSA Midwest Regional Event
Southern Ohio Protection Sports will host the PSA Midwest Regionals September 6-7, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Everyone is welcome to attend and to trial. It looks like Windy City Working Dog Club will be well represented since Daniel and Steve G. will be decoying the event, and a number of club members will be trying to get a PDC or a PSA1.
PSA Trial in Chicago?
Windy City Working Dog Club would like to host a PSA Trial in the Chicago area in the near future - probably sometime in 2009. Anyone interested in helping out please let us know. We'll post details here as they become available.