The outbreak of disease in people caused by a new influenza virus of swine origin continues to grow in the United States and internationally.

Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs.

Human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have been identified in the United States. Human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection also have been identified internationally.

Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) gives the following advice so that you can stay away from swine influenza.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
  
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people. Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
• If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
  

More information sources:

CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
WHO (World Health Organization)
FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
PandemicFlu.gov
ABC News

Brushing their pets' teeth every day is not an easy task for many people. I'm certainly one of them. I am aware of the importance of taking good care of our pets' oral hygiene, and I do check my dog's teeth and gum lines daily. But I have to admit - there are times that it feels like a chore, especially when I know my dog is not cooperative.

For people who would like to learn more about how to brush their dogs' teeth more efficiently, watching a live video demonstration is helpful.

Gwen Rosewater, an artist and my dear friend, has made a video showing how to brush a dog's teeth thoroughly, while handling the dog's body gently. You can learn through her demonstration how to help your dog accept brushing. The video is great - you'll find it's much easier to learn this way than just by reading written instructions. You can watch the video on her web page: www.iconicdog.com/Rescue.html

I hope you will make a positive step forward towards taking better care of your dogs' teeth and gums after you watch her video!

Prevention of a problem is easier and cheaper than fixing the consequences.

Video source provided by Gwen Rosewater at www.iconicdog.com
Gwen is a pet portraits artist and an avid supporter of rescue for all breeds.