Mysterious respiratory illness sickens dogs in multiple states across the US
A potentially fatal respiratory illness has been sweeping through several states, sickening dogs and leaving owners concerned about the health of their beloved pets. According to a report from TODAY, dogs in states including Illinois have been affected by the pneumonia-like illness, which starts with a cough and can quickly worsen. Even more worrying, the illness appears to be resistant to antibiotics, making it difficult to treat.
Officials warn that dogs are most likely to contract the illness by coming into contact with other dogs, particularly in places such as dog parks, kennels, and groomers. The Oregon Department of Agriculture has also reported that this mysterious illness causes symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, discharge from the eyes or nose, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. What’s more, dogs who exhibit these symptoms may test negative for common causes of respiratory illnesses.
Given the severity of the situation, dog owners are advised to seek immediate veterinary care if they notice any of these symptoms in their pets. In addition, experts recommend keeping dogs away from places where they might come into contact with other dogs, while also ensuring that their furry friends are up to date with necessary vaccinations.
The extent of the outbreak has been reported in numerous states, with veterinarians in Oregon, Colorado, New Hampshire, California, Indiana, Illinois, Washington, Idaho, Georgia, and Florida observing cases matching the description of the illness.
To protect their dogs from these respiratory illnesses, experts advise dog owners to reduce contact with large numbers of unknown dogs, avoid sick dogs, keep sick dogs at home and seek veterinary care, and avoid communal water bowls shared by multiple dogs. Additionally, they should consult their veterinarian for advice on which vaccinations their dog should have, and consider having their dog tested to determine the cause of the illness.
Although these developments are concerning, dog owners are encouraged to exercise caution rather than panic when it comes to their pets, and to take necessary precautions to prevent their furry friends from contracting the illness.