Signs of a dog having possibly contracted canine flu include coughing, fever, nasal discharge, lethargy and a general lack of appetite.
A recent outbreak of canine flu in Chicago has veterinarians around the country warning pet owners to pay close attention to news of the disease.
"Canine influenza is something all pet owners and veterinarians should be aware of because it has been seen throughout the United States," said Garret Pachtinger, a Pennsylvania veterinarian certified in emergency and critical care. "It's not just localized in one specific area."
While the canine virus should not be a cause for panic, veterinarians offer these tips for keeping dogs healthy.
* Signs of a dog having possibly contracted canine flu include coughing, fever, nasal discharge, lethargy and a general lack of appetite.
* Call your vet or animal emergency room before visiting if your dog shows these signs; the virus is contagious to other dogs and could be spread to other animals in the waiting area.
* Don't assume your dog can't contract the flu because he or she is an "indoor" dog. Chances are the pet can still occasionally come in contact with other dogs in an apartment building or using the same outdoor area for going to the bathroom.
* If cases of canine flu are reported in your area, stay away from dog parks and grooming salons until reports show the outbreak has subsided.
Here's a gallery of pets throughout northern and central New Jersey in need of adoption. More adoptable pets can be seen here and here.
Greg Hatala may be reached at ghatala@starledger.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregHatala. Find The Star-Ledger on Facebook.