After reports of pet owners infecting their animals with the H1N1 virus, veterinary experts said simple precautions can drastically reduce the likelihood of passing the virus to pets.

“It is widely documented that pets can catch the flu from humans; however, it is not proven that pets can infect humans with the virus,” said Dr. Jean Duddy of Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston's Internal Medicine service. “Pet owners should be on the lookout during flu season for flu symptoms in their pets that are identical to those experienced by humans including lethargy, loss of appetite, dehydration, fever, coughing and sneezing. If you suspect that your pet is sick, it is important to take him or her to your veterinarian for treatment and not to attempt treatment yourself.”

Complete Coverage: H1N1 Flu

If you think you have the H1N1 or another virus, you can reduce the chance of spreading a virus to a pet by:

Avoid close contact with your pet until you are no longer infectious

Wash your hands before and after touching your pet

Do not sneeze on or near your pet

Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing

Do not kiss or hug pet

Wear gloves when changing your cat’s litter

“When you are sick it is important to treat your pet as you would a family member or friend to prevent infecting them,” Duddy said.