Don't worry, pet parents! The recent, rapid outbreak of swine flu appears to
present little risk of infecting our furry friends. In the past few weeks, only
humans have been affected by the new A/H1N1 virus, and it's still unknown how
the virus will impact other species.

"Currently there's no data demonstrating any risk of dogs and cats contracting
this strain of the virus," says Dr. Louise Murray, 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 animals' health more closely and take
steps to limit transmission from humans to pigs and vice versa."

If you do count a pet pig as your animal companion, please consult with your
veterinarian about a Type A influenza vaccine, which is available and
recommended for all healthy swine.

Dr. Miranda Spindel, Director of ASPCA Veterinary Outreach, adds: "Swine
influenza or swine flu is one of the leading causes of respiratory disease in
swine throughout the world. Like most influenza A viruses, swine flu generally
causes high levels of illness in pigs, but fatalities are uncommon."

Although people do not normally contract swine influenza, humans have recently
become infected from affected pigs or contaminated environments. This form of
influenza appears to have started in Mexico, and is an unusual genetic mixture
of Type A influenza viruses originating in pigs, birds and people.

For the latest information about the outbreak and your pet's health, please
visit the Center for Disease Control (http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu). If you
suspect your pet is ill or if he exhibits any sudden changes in behavior, please
contact your veterinarian immediately.