An interesting and potentially fatal respiratory disease is affecting dogs in ten U.S. states, including Illinois, prompting dog owners to be on high alert, TODAY reports. The disease is similar to pneumonia in that it starts with a simple cough, becomes more serious, and becomes resistant to antibiotics.
This canine respiratory disease is primarily spread through contact between dogs, which increases the risk in places with high dog traffic, such as parks, grooming centers and kennels. The Oregon Department of Agriculture outlines symptoms that dog owners should be aware of. These symptoms include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, difficulty breathing and significant fatigue. Interestingly, dogs affected by this disease may continue to test negative for conventional causes of respiratory illness.
Dog owners who notice these symptoms should see their veterinarian immediately. Veterinarians emphasize the importance of keeping dogs away from crowded areas, but stress that dogs showing symptoms need immediate medical attention. Additionally, they recommend keeping all dogs’ vaccination schedules up to date.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture breaks down recorded cases into three different categories. These are: persistent mild-to-moderate tracheobronchitis lasting 6-8 weeks or longer, with minimal or no response to antibiotics; persistent pneumonia, also with minimal or no response to antibiotics; acute pneumonia that worsens rapidly, Serious consequences usually occur within 24-36 hours.
Dog owners are advised to consult a veterinarian before taking their pets to areas with a high dog population. The disease, commonly known as “zoo strep,” has been reported by veterinarians in Oregon, Colorado, New Hampshire, California, Indiana, Illinois, Washington, Idaho, Georgia and Florida. disease.
While dog owners are advised to exercise caution, experts stress there is no need to panic. They offer some tips for protecting dogs from respiratory disease, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and prompt action. It’s a reminder that our furry friends not only depend on us for affection and walks in the park, but also on us for their health and primary defense against these invisible threats.
How to keep your dog safe?
While dog owners are advised to err on the side of caution, experts also make it clear that owners should err on the side of caution rather than worry, and offer the following tips to help protect dogs from respiratory illnesses:
- Reduce contact with large numbers of unknown dogs. As with other respiratory pathogens, the more your dog is exposed, the greater the risk of encountering an infected dog.
- 2. Reduce contact with sick dogs. This can be difficult to determine, but if the dog looks sick (coughing, runny nose, watery eyes), keep your dog away.
- 3. Keep sick dogs home and seek veterinary care.
- 4. Avoid sharing water containers with multiple dogs.
- 5. Ask your veterinarian about the vaccinations your dog should receive. Common vaccines include canine influenza vaccine, Bordetella vaccine, and parainfluenza vaccine.
- 6. If your dog becomes sick, consider getting a PCR test to help identify the causative agent (virus/bacteria) if possible.
- Remember, exercising caution and following these precautions can help protect your dog from respiratory illnesses.
You may be interested in reading:
Italy bans sale of lab-grown meat
Yellowstone Alert: Deadly deer disease emerges for first time—possible risk to human health
