Posted: December 2, 2009, 5 a.m. EST
Two dogs in Beijing have tested positive for H1N1 influenza, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, which cited the Xinhua News Agency on Nov. 28. To date, there have not been any confirmed cases of dogs infected with the virus.
The Chinese press reported that the virus found in the dogs was a 99 percent match for the flu currently infecting humans. The breed of the dogs has not been released.
The 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, sometimes erroneously called “swine flu,” has also been detected in cats, ferrets, pigs, birds and humans.
The AVMA urges pet owners to monitor their pets’ health very closely, no matter what type of animal, and visit a veterinarian if there are any signs of illness.
The AVMA is tracking all instances of H1N1 in animals and posting updates on its website.
The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association is also posting updated information on H1N1 as it becomes available.