As many of you already know there is a new respiratory virus affecting dogs across the United States. The illness was first noted in the western states such as Oregon and Colorado, but has now be identified in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Initial clinical signs of the illness, which at this point is unknown to be viral or bacterial in origin, looks initially very similar to Kennel cough. So coughing, fever, lethargy and decreased appetite are often the first signs of the illness. A lot of animals do not respond or only partially respond to initial treatments, which are typically antibiotics. In severe cases pneumonia develops and can result in death or euthanasia due to declining health.
There is one very common risk factor for being exposed to the illness, which is being in an area where many dogs are in close contact with one another. Examples of this include dog parks, boarding facilities, and grooming facilities. Because of these risk factors, younger dogs are being commonly infected.
The best thing you can do at this point to keep your dog safe it to make sure that they are vaccinated against all of the respiratory pathogens. This includes Flu (Influenza), Bordetella, and Parainfluenza. Keep them away from areas where there may be crowding of dogs together. This means staying away from dog parks, dog beaches, boarding facilities, and groomers. If you are going away, consider using an in home dog sitter.
If your dog starts coughing, sneezing, has nasal or ocular discharge, rapid or labored breathing, fever, or lethargy, see your primary veterinarian as soon as possible. If you cannot get an appointment with your primary care veterinarian within 2 to 3 days, or if your dog's symptoms are getting worse then please seek care at an emergency hospital right away.
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