11/27/2023
🐾 Important Health Alert 🐾
There has been a significant increase in cases of a contagious illness leading to upper respiratory infections among dogs. This illness is showing signs similar to kennel cough or CIRDC, including symptoms like coughing, sneezing, discharge from eyes and nose, lethargy, decreased appetite, and fever. However, some dogs continue coughing for several weeks, and there is an increased occurrence of severe pneumonia, which has been tragically fatal in some instances.
Current clinical findings suggest that most affected dogs have a virus targeting the respiratory system, leading to secondary bacterial infection and pneumonia. The exact mode of transmission is still unclear, but it appears to be contagious .
Here are a few recommendations to help curb the spread:
🐾 Keep Vaccines Updated: Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are current. This includes the annual vaccine for Bordetella, Adenovirus 2, parainfluenza and influenza H3N2.
🐾 Monitor Your Dogs Closely: Watch for progressive coughing, ocular or nasal discharge and sneezing.
🐾 Seek Veterinary Care Immediately: If your dog shows the above symptoms, particularly with loss of appetite, breathing difficulties, continuous coughing or extreme lethargy, contact us immediately.
🐾 Avoid Dog Gatherings: Temporarily avoid dog parks and other social events where your dog might be in contact with other dogs. If your dog has to be boarded for an extended amount of time, has to attend a daycare or has a grooming appointment, ensure vaccinations are complete at least 48 hours in advance. However, finding an in-home petsitter is highly encouraged during this time.
🐾 Quarantine: If your dog has been boarded, groomed, attended daycare or is showing upper respiratory symptoms, it is recommended to avoid contact with other dogs in the household for 2 weeks.
We are closely monitoring the situation and staying informed about the latest findings and recommendations. The health and safety of all companion pets is our top priority, and we are here to provide the best care possible.
For more information or if you have concerns about your pet’s health, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
