12/06/2023
Recent Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex Outbreak
We have had several questions recently about an outbreak of upper respiratory disease in dogs. While there are still many unknowns regarding this recent outbreak, here’s what we know so far:
What is it? Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) is a broad term for upper respiratory disease caused by several viruses and bacteria, similar to the common cold in humans. A more common term for CIRDC is ‘kennel cough’ as outbreaks are often associated in boarding kennels, but outbreaks can spread anywhere dogs are in close contact including dog parks, pet stores, and even through close contact while out on walks. CIRDC most often manifests as a cough, but other symptoms can include sneezing and runny eyes or nose. In most cases, CIRDC is a self-limiting infection that will resolve on its own within a week. In rare cases, CIRCD can progress to more serious disease including pneumonia, respiratory distress, and even death. Since most causes are viral induced, antibiotics are not necessary but may be considered in high-risk patients to prevent the progression to pneumonia and reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections taking hold while the immune system is compromised. CIRDC pathogens are spread in respiratory secretions – nose to nose contact, common water bowls, dog bites, mutual grooming, etc.
What’s the recent hype? In the last year, there have been several outbreaks of a CIRDC-like disease caused by an as-of-yet unknown pathogen. A virus is suspected but a specific virus has not been identified. Like known CIRDC infections, this outbreak is characterized by many dogs that recover spontaneously without intervention but a small number of pets that progress rapidly to pneumonia and more serious disease with minimal to no response to regular effective treatments. Starting earlier this year, there were outbreaks in the Northeast and more recent outbreaks have been reported in Colorado and Oregon, specifically the Portland area. No known major outbreaks in our local Olympia area are known, though Washington vets have been asked to start reporting cases of CIRDC that are not responsive to normal treatments. With the increase of travel during the holiday season, new outbreaks are likely to occur as infected pets may be traveling with family.
What can you do?
For now, we recommend increased caution when interacting with unknown dogs. Avoid dog parks, limit excursions to pet stores or other stores, and reduce direct contact with strange dogs while out on walks.
Bring your own water supply for longer walks and prevent your dog from drinking out of common or shared water dishes.
If you are out and about and interact with strange dogs, wash your hands well before going home and interacting with your own pets.
Monitor for symptoms of CIRDC – coughing, sneezing, runny nose, changes to respiratory rate or effort, or any other new signs. If you notice any symptoms, call us for an appointment or advice.