Staff Reports
A mysterious respiratory illness in dogs that started during the summer has now spread to 14 states, raising concerns among dog owners and prompting an investigation by experts. The illness, which remains unidentified, has caught the attention of Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. In an interview with USA Today, Dr. Carlson emphasized the need to identify the source of the illness and find effective treatments.
Mysterious Dog Illness Reported in 14 States, Leaving Vets Puzzled https://t.co/qEqLGvZreT https://t.co/OVAZMZuQ3y #TheMillennialPress
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The symptoms of the illness are similar to kennel cough, a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease in severe cases. Symptoms include fever, coughing, difficulty breathing, discharge from the eye or nose, and fatigue. Owners are advised to closely monitor their dogs for progressive coughing accompanied by ocular or nasal discharges and sneezing. If additional symptoms such as loss of appetite, trouble breathing, continuous coughing, or extreme lethargy develop, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian immediately.
The illness has affected dogs in multiple states including California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. Dogs are reportedly staying sick longer with the illness, as it is not responding to antibiotics. It is also noted that dogs with preexisting respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to developing pneumonia. Veterinarians are diligently working to identify the cause of the illness and determine effective treatment options. One dog, a 5-year-old golden retriever named Ike, had his health improve after being prescribed chloramphenicol, which is considered a “last resort” drug among veterinarians.
To prevent the spread of the illness, pet owners are advised to avoid areas with a high concentration of dogs, such as boarding facilities, doggie day cares, groomers, and dog parks. The exact number of dogs affected by the illness remains unknown, as most treatment and testing are taking place in private veterinarian clinics. As experts continue to investigate and search for solutions, dog owners are encouraged to stay updated and take necessary precautions to keep their furry friends healthy and safe.
