October 2002 Dog Talk (previous articles)

West Nile Virus Update Is carried by many types of mosquitoes. Birds are the reservoir; blue jays and crows get sick and many die. Horses and people are "dead end" hosts. We can get sick, but not pass the virus on to more mosquitoes. Horses get very sick. About 1/3 die. There is a vaccine, so vaccinate your horses. People occasionally get sick, rarely serious. Dogs and cats are apparently not susceptible; although not studied much at this point. Avoid mosquitoes, stay in at dawn and dusk (you and your dog) and use safe repellants on pets and clothing.

Check back for new Dog Talk columns each month!

Here are links to previous articles:

• Play Aggression

• How Heatproof is Your Dog?

• Pools & Dogs

• Crating No Nos

• Helping Kids Cope

• Special Conditioning

• Signs of Kidney Disease

• Age proofing Checklist

• Sleep Disorders

• Turkey Day Tips

• Fear Biting

• Bloat

• Poison Ivy and Sumac

• Dogs in the Garden

• Skunk Hours

• Airway Aid

• Bathing Tips

• First Aid Kits

• Fall Safety Tips

• Plant Poisoning and Small Animals

• It's Hot, Hot, Hot - Dogs and Summer

• Political Pooches

• Lost Dog Poster

• A Secret To Add 2-6 Years To Your Dog's Life!

• Waiting Room Anxiety