12/04/2023
Good Morning Wallburg Family
Across the country, there have been multiple reported cases of a “Mystery Upper Respiratory Infection” affecting dogs. Some of these cases developed into pneumonia or other symptoms that can be typically expected from an URI (similar to Kennel Cough).
Affected dogs experience a longer and more severe disease course than is typical for canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) complex. A common cause has not been determined at this time. In some cases, symptoms have lasted 6-12 weeks and have not responded well to antibiotics.
The news is reporting these cases, and it can sound very scary. Be aware that we have NOT experienced any cases in our area and we are taking the up-most caution to keep everyone safe. Please keep in mind that respiratory disease in canines is nothing new and periodically we will see an increase with this disease.
Curb Side Appointments
Should your pet experience any of the symptoms listed below, please call us and we will schedule a curb side appointment. We ask that you DO NOT walk your pets while waiting for your appointment. We will be examining your pet in the van located next to our main building. These steps are to prevent contagion from spreading in our hospital.
Common Symptoms include:
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Labored breathing
• Nose or Eye Discharge
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
Precaution:
Respiratory diseases commonly spread through direct contact, through water droplets from sneezing and coughing, or contaminated objects and surfaces.
• Avoid high risk situations for your dog such as dog parks, socializing, and going inside facilities that do not require vaccine to be updated upon entry. (Home Depot, Lowes, Pet Smart, PetCo, ect)
• Do not share dog bowls, toys, or doggy chews between dogs. Make sure your dog is up to date on their routine vaccinations.
Boarders:
Our boarding facility has been keeping up on highly strict sanitation standards to prevent this virus by deep cleaning our facility multiple times daily. Every patient has their own assigned leash, bowls, blankets, and bedding that is not to be shared with any others. All items are cleaned daily during your pets stay with appropriate disinfectant. We will only accept food and medications, we will not accept patient belongings (such as blankets, toys, beds, ect.) so that we can maintain this sanitation standard.
All boarders will be required to sign our Kennel Cough Waiver form that will explain our upper respiratory infection disclosure, our cleaning practices, and acknowledge that should your pet show any signs of an URI during their stay, will immediately be treated and isolated from others.
Please give us a call with any questions or concerns you may have.
Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to keeping your pet healthy and happy.