STEVE DALE: MY PET WORLD

It's Flu Season for People and Dogs

It's still cold and flu season -- for people as well as dogs. The good news is, dogs don't get the flu from people (though there has been one confirmed case of H1N1 in a dog), and people don't get the canine influenza virus. And just as people can get pretty sick, even die from the flu, so can dogs. Fortunately, a vaccine to fend off the canine influenza virus (CIV) was released last year.

STEVE DALE: MY PET WORLD

Restrictions on "Dangerous" Dogs Would Hurt Pit Bull Owners Most

Q: I know you're aware that Elgin, Ill., a community just outside Chicago, wants to ban pit bulls. I live here, and while I don't have a pit bull, I'm concerned that my breed might be next, or my dog might be mistaken for a pit bull. Any thoughts? -- C.S., Elgin, IL

STEVE DALE: MY PET WORLD

My Pet World Q&A

Here are some of your recent comments from my email and snail mail boxes:

STEVE DALE: MY PET WORLD

Dog's nervous nipping may be a plea for attention

LAS VEGAS, NV -- These reader questions were answered by experts at the Western Veterinary Conference, the largest veterinary conference in the country, Feb. 14-18 at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

STEVE DALE: MY PET WORLD

Treatments Vary for Hyperthyroid Condition in Cats

Q: Our 15-year-old cat has been diagnosed with a hyperthyroid condition. The vet says we can choose from three treatments. Is this accurate, and if so, do you have any advice? -- N.Z., Atlanta, GA

AACCC Adoption of the Week

Here is Balto, an adult, male, husky mix. He is very active, loves to run, and has an adventurous, inquisitive spirit. He has the makings of a great skijoring dog and a fine companion. He can be a little shy, so will do best in a home without small children, but he has gotten along great with other dogs at AACCC. A sweet, gentle spirit and quite adorable! He can be adopted for $152, which includes his neuter deposit, MOA license, vaccinations, and microchip. Call 343-8118 for more information. See Balto's video.

Spca's Critter Corner

Ghost is a 3-year-old white, short-haired male. He enjoys the company of people and dogs and absolutely loves to play. Ghost is microchipped, neutered and has all shots. Call 344-3622, or go online to www.alaskaspca.org.

Pet Patrol

Bonnie is a talkative, short-haired black and white spayed cat who found herself as an unclaimed stray at Animal Care and Control. For information on how to provide her a lifetime home, call 333-9534 or apply online at www.friendsofpets.org.