In the midst of an increasing number of outbreaks of a mysterious canine respiratory illness across several U.S. states, veterinary experts are sounding the alarm for dog owners to safeguard their pets during the bustling winter social and travel season.
The state of Oregon has seen over 200 dogs falling ill since August due to this unidentified ailment that induces symptoms resembling a cough and pneumonia. Unfortunately, this illness cannot be treated with antibiotics, as highlighted in a report by the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association released on November 21.
Similar outbreaks have been documented in various states, including California, Texas, Illinois, Nebraska, Colorado, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.
Dr. Jennifer Rudd, a doctor of veterinary medicine and an assistant professor at the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, highlights the challenge in differentiating this mysterious respiratory illness from a common ailment known as “kennel cough.”
Kennel cough, often mild, encompasses canine versions of well-known maladies such as influenza, coronavirus, adenovirus, or distemper.
“As with any viral respiratory outbreak, most cases will be mild and self-limiting, often resolving on their own over a few weeks. Unfortunately, some cases will be much more severe or even fatal,” Dr. Rudd says.
Symptoms and Signs of Respiratory Disease in Dogs
Early detection is crucial, and the dog owners are advised to contact a veterinarian at the first signs of respiratory disease, such as a cough or runny nose. Preemptively calling ahead is recommended to limit the contact of sick dogs with other animals, minimizing the potential spread of the illness.
“While most cases will be mild and unalarming and can be managed at home, some cases progress rapidly to severe disease. Veterinarians can assess your pet’s risk and ensure the appropriate treatment is in place before it is too late,” says Dr. Rudd.
Typically, respiratory illnesses in dogs are managed with rest, fluids, and cough-suppressing medications if necessary, according to the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine. Most cases resolve within two weeks without further intervention. However, more severe cases may present pneumonia-like symptoms, necessitating aggressive treatments such as hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics, oxygen, and fluids.
Maintaining up-to-date vaccinations significantly reduces the risk of illness in dogs, and even if they do contract a respiratory bug, the severity of the illness is likely to be lessened, advises Cornell. It is imperative to keep sick dogs isolated from other dogs to prevent the transmission of kennel cough and the enigmatic respiratory illness. Close contact among dogs in grooming facilities, animal shelters, dog parks, and kennels during holiday travels can facilitate the spread of these illnesses.
Stéphane Paul, PhD, a professor at the International Center for Infectiology Research in France who has studied canine respiratory illnesses says, “Dogs should avoid being in enclosed spaces with other animals due to the high contagiousness and rapid spread of the infection.”
“This is especially important at the moment, considering the lack of an efficient and rapid treatment,” she adds.
How to Safely Board Your Dog During the Holidays
For dog owners planning to board their pets during the holidays, Dr. Rudd recommends reconsidering these plans, if possible. But if boarding is unavoidable, certain precautions can help ensure the safety of the dog:
- Confirm that the dogs is up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations, including the core DAPP vaccine, Bordetella vaccine, and the canine influenza vaccine series.
- Select a boarding facility that mandates vaccinations for all boarded dogs. Inquire about their outbreak management plant and whether they have a close collaboration with a veterinarian to handle potential cases.
- Refrain from boarding a pet displaying any signs of respiratory illness. Instead, promptly contact a veterinarian for evaluation.
These precautions become even more critical for dogs at a higher risk of severe illness, emphasizing the importance of responsible pet ownership during this challenging time. As mysterious respiratory illness continues to spread, proactive measures are paramount to safeguarding the health and well-being of our canine companions.
Dr. Rudd says, “Animals most at risk include puppies who have not completed their full vaccine series and who are not yet 16 weeks of age, as well as dogs who may be immune suppressed due to chronic airway disease, heart disease, kidney disease, or cancer. Any unvaccinated animal is at increased risk since these viruses and bacteria can exacerbate disease regardless of the initial cause.”
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