12/14/2023
As many of you are aware, in recent weeks, a concerning surge in reported cases of a mysterious respiratory illness impacting dogs has captured widespread attention.
As advocates for animal care and welfare, our mission is to try our best to share updates that inspire hope and smart safety precautions rather than fear.
💡 What We Know So Far (The Overwhelming Stuff):
Across the United States, dogs are exhibiting symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, fever, lethargy, intermittent lack of appetite, nasal discharge, and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing (though severe cases are presumed to be rare). The illness spreads through close contact, including play and sharing of bowls, toys, and chews. As of November 20th, 15 states have reported cases: California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.
Efforts are underway to identify the specific pathogen, with initial research suggesting a viral origin. Although tests for this virus are not yet available, medical professionals are actively developing diagnostic tools.
🙏 The Hope:
Amid challenges, there is a notable glimmer of hope. It's been reported that most dogs who develop pneumonia respond to antibiotics, and many with a long-lasting cough recover over time.
Collaborative research is making promising strides in identifying the cause and treatment options for the severe cases of this mysterious illness. Technological advances offer hope for more accurate and rapid detection.
The strength of our community lies in our unwavering commitment to the well-being of our pet family members. We're grateful to the veterinarians, researchers, and animal health organizations for working tirelessly together to share updates on information and data and come up with solutions to this health dilemma.
🐶 What Pet Owners Can Do:
Monitor Your Pets: Keep a close eye on your furry friends for signs of respiratory distress or unusual behavior; early detection is key.
Consult Your Veterinarian: If symptoms arise, reach out to your veterinarian for thorough examinations and appropriate tests.
Preventive Measures: Temporarily limit your dog's contact with other animals outside the household, including daycare, grooming, boarding facilities, and dog parks (individual walks are safe). Avoid sharing bowls, toys, and chews. Veterinarians recommend full vaccination, including distemper virus, adenovirus, parainfluenza, parvovirus, bordetella, and canine influenza. As a bonus, consider taking measures to boost your pets’ immune system. We HIGHLY recommend using NuVet's K-9 Plus vitamin wafer for your pet. ( For ordering go to www.nuvet.com/33894 or go to our website www.CFdachshunds.com and click the NuVet tab)
Stay calm, stay informed, and stay connected.
