The new cases involve pet ferrets and a single cat. So far no dogs have tested positive according to VNN. One ferret from Oregon recovered but another in Nebraska died. The feline, a 13 year old pet in Iowa, has recovered.

According to VNN, treatment options are antibiotics (presumably to protect against secondary bacterial infections) and supportive care. They also state that no swine flu vaccine is currently available for pets.

Despite the comfort they offer us, in addition to meticulous hand washing, if you are ill with the flu it is best not to cuddle or sleep with your dog or cat until you recover says VNN.

Be sure to contact your Veterinarian if you have any health concerns about your dog, cat or other pet.

Like this on Facebook! Send this story to a friend by clicking that little button that says "Bookmark" on the upper left hand side of the page, then just click "Email." You can also easily Digg, Bookmark (Favorites), add to Facebook or MySpace, or otherwise share this story by clicking that button. Try it today! Follow DogExplorer.com on Twitter! Just visit this link: Your opinion? Discuss this story in our dog forum. It's free. Please fill out our readership survey if you have not already done so. Please take a moment right now. Click here to fill out the survey. Thank you!