The danger of dogs and cats contracting the H1N1 virus is small. The virus only appears to be transmitted from human to human or human to swine. Could your pet come down with H1N1? Not unless you’re the owner of a Vietnamese potbelly, African pygmy or other pet pig, experts say.

All swine are susceptible to the virus.  There are reported incidences throughout the country of pigs being infected with the virus. They have the risk of contracting the virus as they can host both avian and mammalian influenza viruses. It’s been theorized that pigs could actually allow avian influenza to adapt to mammalian species, and for flu viruses to change and mutate into completely different viruses, according to the Chronicle.

But dogs and cats are not at risk. “At this time, there is no data demonstrating any risk of dogs and cats contracting this strain of virus, “Dr. Louise Murray. Director of medicine at the American Veterinary Medical Association ( AVMA) said. “However, owners of pet pigs should monitor their animal’s health carefully.”

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