What to Know About a Mysterious Dog Respiratory Illness

posted: by: Dr. Malcolm Richardson Tags: "Clinic Specials" "News" 

While the Myrtle Avenue Veterinary Hospital (Nor has Humboldt, nor UC Davis) has yet to see any patients for a mysterious canine respiratory illness spreading nationwide, veterinarians throughout the country are working collaboratively to determine exactly what may be causing the numerous illnesses. At this time if your dog is presenting with signs of respiratory disease, we are asking that your pet remain in the vehicle while you check in.

Clinical signs include: coughing, sneezing, labored breathing, and fever. At this point researchers have not identified a specific viral or bacterial agent. At MAVH we are aware of treatment protocols that have been employed for animals that developed clinical signs. If you’re worried about canine respiratory disease:

  • Limit your dog’s contacts: Dog parks, boarding/grooming, dog shows
  • Keep your dog away from sick dogs
  • If your dog is sick, keep it away from other dogs
  • Talk to your vet about vaccination against canine influenza, canine parainfluenza (CPIV) and Bordetella bronchiseptica.
Citation: UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine; J. Scott Weese, DVM, DVSc, DACVIM