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New Canine Respiratory Disease Updates

December 4, 2023 Canine Respiratory Disease Update

An unknown, possibly severe form of canine cough is on the rise; owners can help ensure their pet’s health by recognizing symptoms early. The cause behind the ‘mystery’ canine infectious respiratory disease that began circulating in Oregon a few months ago remains unknown at this time. The disease has been reported in several states.

The cases appear to be caused by a virus but common respiratory diagnostic testing has not been able to conclusively show which virus or bacteria is the cause of the cough. One reason that the disease spreads so quickly is that the contagious phase of the illness may have already passed by the time cases are seen by veterinarians. Some common symptoms of the new disease include:

  • Inflammation of the trachea (causing a cough) which may last six weeks or longer and is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics.
  • Chronic pneumonia that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics.
  • Acute pneumonia that rapidly becomes severe and may lead to serious illness in as little as 24 to 36 hours.

If your pet is experiencing these symptoms, please call us to schedule an appointment. To learn more about symptoms and prevention, please check out these links:

https://www.wuwm.com/2023-11-30/wisconsin-veterinarian-gives-insight-into-unusual-dog-respiratory-illness

https://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/2023/11/articles/animals/dogs/a-dog-owners-guide-to-navigating-respiratory-disease-concerns/

https://vet.skyworlddev.com/news?siteID=307&newsid=87&prevglobal=1

Wauwatosa Veterinary Clinic