Morton Arboretum cancels event for dog owners over canine influenza

The Morton Arboretum in Lisle has canceled a day of hiking and demonstrations for pet owners in light of the canine influenza epidemic in the Chicago area.

Tails on the Trails, previously scheduled for May 9, was planned to allow dogs and their owners to visit the arboretum together for activities and a pet expo, according to the arboretum’s website.

“The canine flu continues to have a strong presence in the region, and the Arboretum is sensitive to the impacts of the virus on dogs and dog owners,” the arboretum posted in a statement to its website.

The decision was made to cancel out of concern for the animals’ health and well-being, the statement said.

The next Tails on the Trails event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, at the arboretum at 4100 Route 53.