11/30/2023
We are aware of the unknown canine respiratory disease that has been circulating in some parts of the country. We want you to know we are dedicated to the health and wellness of our patients. We understand things like this can be quite unsettling and worrisome. As of this date there are no known cases in Missouri. Please see the following press release from the MVMA.
Unknown canine illness reported in 12 states.
No confirmation on any instances in Missouri.
As has been widely reported by the media, an unknown canine respiratory disease has been circulating in some parts of the country after possibly originating in Oregon earlier this year. According to information from the AVMA, the causative agent remains unidentified.
In Oregon, some 200 cases have been identified by veterinarians, and it has either been officially or anecdotally reported in 12 states to date. At present, we are not aware of confirmed cases in Missouri.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture has shared the following three general clinical syndromes from the cases in their state:
Chronic mild-moderate tracheobronchitis with a prolonged duration (6-8 weeks or longer) that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics
Chronic pneumonia that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics
Acute pneumonia that rapidly becomes severe and often leads to poor outcomes in as little as 24-36 hours
AVMA has additionally shared the following information:
Until a causative agent is identified, and assuming a viral etiology, treatment is usually supportive (i.e., good hydration, nutrition) with the intent to prevent secondary bacterial infections. If a bacterial cause is identified or strongly suspected, then antibiotics may be indicated.
Initial therapy is prescribed based on likely respiratory pathogens and information about the coverage provided by various antibiotics.
In severe cases, a parenteral antimicrobial combination that includes a fluoroquinolone and penicillin or clindamycin has been recommended. More severely affected dogs may need more
aggressive treatment, which may include hospitalization (with isolation) and provision of IV fluids, oxygen support, nebulization and coupage.
Because tracheal irritation is a common feature of respiratory disease in dogs, care should be taken to prevent further irritation to the trachea by avoiding a neck lead and removing barking triggers.
