Canine Flu Outbreak Shuts Down Evergreen Park Dog Park

A dog park in Evergreen Park has been shut down temporarily as a precaution against the fast-spreading canine influenza.

The Happy Bark Dog Park at 91st and California is closed “for a week or two on the advice of a local veterinarian,” Mayor Jim Sexton said, as reported by the Daily Southtown.

The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control reports that more than 1,000 cases of the canine flu—and at least five dog fatalities—have been confirmed.

Symptoms include persistent and lingering cough, lethargic behavior, a poor appetite and a fever, according to the Department of Animal and Rabies Control. Dogs can spread the illness even if they are not displaying symptoms.

Sexton said the park will be reopened at a later date, with the recommendation of local veterinarians.