Canine respiratory illness is a fast-moving infection that has been detected in dogs across the country. At least 16 states have reported infections so far. While veterinarians and other experts are not sure if the infection is viral or bacterial, they do know that it is part of the canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), which is a group of diseases that are caused by different contagious viral and bacterial pathogens. Here is what to know about canine respiratory illness in order to protect your dog.
Which States Have Reported the Illness?
Veterinarians in at least 16 states have reported treating dogs who have canine respiratory illness. More cases probably exist across the country but have not been reported. These are the states that are currently reporting infections:
- Arizona.
- Oregon.
- Washington.
- California.
- Idaho.
- Nevada.
- Colorado.
- Florida.
- Georgia.
- Delaware.
- Rhode Island.
- Massachusetts.
- Maryland.
- Illinois.
- Indiana.
- Vermont.
- Pennsylvania.
How Can You Tell if Your Dog is Sick?
Most dogs show mild symptoms at first that seem like a cold or allergies. If symptoms progress, they will progress rapidly and can turn into pneumonia or acute pneumonia. If you notice these symptoms in your dog, take him to a veterinarian right away:
- Nasal or eye discharge.
- Fever.
- Lethargy.
- Weight loss.
- Dehydration.
- Loss of appetite.
- Trouble breathing.
- Wheezing.
- Cough.
- Sneezing.
- Blue or purple gums.
Can You Prevent Your Dog from Getting Sick?
There isn’t a vaccination for canine respiratory illness yet, but getting your dog vaccinated for other respiratory illnesses may offer some protection. You can also take these steps:
- Don’t board your dog at a kennel or boarding facility.
- Avoid highly populated areas like dog grooming salons, doggy daycare, and the dog park.
- Don’t let your dog touch noses with or come in contact with other dogs, either outside or in homes.
- Don’t let your dog share food or water bowls or toys.
What Should You Do if Your Dog is Sick?
If your dog is ill or shows any of the symptoms listed above, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian. If your dog is having trouble breathing, you should take him to a veterinary hospital.