WASHINGTON – The Montgomery County Recreation Department is canceling its popular Pooch Pool Party due to the outbreak of dog influenza in the area, a news release from the department said.
The party was scheduled for Sept. 7 and 8 at the Glenmont Pool in Wheaton, but recreation department officials said they canceled the event as a precaution.
“It is disappointing to have to cancel this popular event, but we feel it is the right decision to proactively protect our pets from the potential spread of the virus,” Gabe Albornoz, recreation department director, said in the release.
Cases of canine flu were first reported in Montgomery on Aug. 21, according to a news release from the Maryland Agriculture, Health and Mental Hygiene and Natural Resources departments. By the end of the month, the departments found 20 cases of dog influenza and two flu-related deaths.
Dogs with the illness will develop a cough, runny nose and a fever, but some can develop a more severe case. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the virus isn’t a threat for humans.
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