We wanted to make everybody aware of the 'atypical canine respiratory illness’ that has recently been covered in the news. In an effort to keep our clients up-to-date on the latest information, here is what we know at this time:
There is an atypical canine respiratory virus being reported nationally in 10 states.
Neither the U.S Department of Agriculture nor the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) have released a statement at this time. We will update you if this changes.
The illness is reported as typically resulting in chronic mild to moderate inflammation of the trachea, chronic pneumonia that is non- responsive to antibiotics, or acute pneumonia that rapidly progresses within 24 to 48 hours.
A handful of cases test positive for M. cynos, but this agent is not believed to be the underlying causative agent, as this is oftentimes a secondary bacteria in other similar respiratory illnesses.
We are strongly encouraging dog owners to make sure their animals are fully vaccinated for:
Canine Influenza Virus - with the bivalent vaccination H3N2 & H3N8
Bordetella Bronchiseptica Vaccine
Canine Distemper-Adenovirus- Parainfluenza- Parvovirus Vaccine
During this holiday season we encourage all our dog owners to use precaution in your pets interaction with other dogs. This includes in your neighborhoods and places where dogs meet; dog parks, grooming, boarding, etc.
It is common for there to be an uptick in respiratory cases around the holidays. The most common respiratory disease among dogs is under the umbrella term "kennel cough," which typically spreads through kennels, shelters or other daycare facilities, and has very similar signs to what is being reported in the news . Most cases of kennel cough are mild and dogs typically recover within 7 to 10 days. Dogs can recover from a respiratory illness on their own without the help of antibiotics.
If your dog shows any signs of coughing, nasal or ocular discharge, lethargy, inappetence, or sneezing, please reach out to us immediately. If we are closed, please contact your closest emergency hospital.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your pet’s vaccination status, please call your veterinarian.