Bird Flu in Dubuque: What Pet Owners Need to Know About Avian Influenza and Pets

If you’ve seen recent headlines about bird flu in Dubuque, Iowa, you’re not alone. The Iowa DNR recently confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild birds near Bergfeld Pond and Heritage Pond.

At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic, we want local pet owners to understand what this means for dogs, cats, and other pets—and how to keep your family safe without panic.

What Is Bird Flu?

Avian influenza, often called bird flu, is a virus that primarily affects wild birds and domestic poultry. It spreads easily among ducks, geese, and chickens, especially where birds share water sources.

Most strains of bird flu do not infect mammals—but occasionally, certain strains like H5N1 can spread to other species, including cats, dogs, and even humans.

Fortunately, infections in pets are extremely rare, and there’s no evidence that bird flu spreads easily from pets to people.

Can Dogs and Cats Get Bird Flu?

It’s rare, but possible.

• Cats are at slightly higher risk, especially if they go outdoors and hunt or eat wild birds.
• Dogs can also be infected if they mouth, eat, or play with dead or sick wild birds.
• There’s no risk from well-cooked poultry or commercial pet food—problems arise mainly from raw or contaminated sources.

In short: your indoor pets are safe, but outdoor pets may need extra supervision during this outbreak.

Bird Flu Symptoms in Dogs and Cats

If your pet has had contact with wild birds or bird carcasses, watch for these warning signs:

• Coughing, sneezing, or labored breathing
• Sudden fatigue or loss of appetite
• Fever
• Watery eyes or nasal discharge
• Incoordination, tremors, or unusual behavior (in rare, severe cases)

These symptoms can also occur with more common respiratory illnesses, but it’s still wise to contact your veterinarian if your pet seems unwell—especially if there’s been recent bird exposure.

How to Protect Your Pets During the Dubuque Bird Flu Outbreak

Here’s how to keep your pets safe and your mind at ease:

🐦 Keep cats indoors—especially if they’re known bird hunters.
🐕 Leash or supervise dogs near ponds, lakes, or parks where geese and ducks gather.
🚫 Prevent pets from touching or eating dead birds.
🥩 Avoid raw meat diets that contain poultry or wild game.
💧 Discourage pets from drinking from ponds or puddles that wild birds frequent.
🧼 Wash your hands and clean leashes or boots if you’ve been in areas with waterfowl.

If you notice several dead birds in one area, report it to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) so they can investigate.

What This Means for Dubuque Pet Owners

The current bird flu detections in Dubuque appear limited to wild waterfowl, not backyard pets or people. Still, because our community has so many parks, ponds, and riverfront areas, it’s worth being cautious with outdoor pets this fall.

Remember: bird flu is mainly a wildlife issue, not a household one. Simple awareness and good hygiene are the best tools for keeping your pets safe.

When to Call Your Veterinarian

Call your vet (or us at PetMed of Key West) if your dog or cat:

• Develops respiratory signs or sudden illness and has been exposed to wild birds, especially waterfowl.

We can guide you through next steps, from monitoring at home to scheduling an exam if needed.

The Bottom Line

Bird flu in Dubuque isn’t cause for alarm—but it’s a good reminder to stay mindful of our pets’ outdoor adventures.

By keeping cats indoors, supervising dogs, and avoiding wildlife contact, you can dramatically lower any risk of avian influenza exposure.

If you have questions about your pet’s health or possible bird exposure, call PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic at (563) 583-8387 or visit dbqpetmed.com.