Dr. Al Townshend
US news and social media outlets are a buzz with reports of what has been described as a mysterious respiratory illness occurring in multiple areas of the United States and Canada. Multiple states and have reported cases; however, the exact numbers are unknown as veterinarians are not required to report respiratory diseases in dogs to state or federal officials.
Laboratories in at least four states and at least one veterinary school in Canada are investigating the illness in dogs that are presenting with similar symptoms for what is commonly called kennel cough, or Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC).
What are the Signs?
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Temperature
- Labored breathing
- Nose or eye discharge
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
What is the Cause?
To date, the exact cause of the current respiratory infection is unknown. There are multiple bacteria and viruses that cause similar symptoms that have all been linked to causing CIRDC. Some, like Bordetella, Parainfluenza, adenovirus type 2, influenza virus (subtype H3N2 and H3N8), and distemper, can be vaccinated against, while others, like the common cold, have to run their course.
Most are spread by direct contact with another dog that has the disease.
What is the Treatment?
If a bacteria is suspected, antibiotics can speed the recovery. Viruses are not treatable with antibiotics but are sometimes prescribed initially to protect the pet from secondary bacterial infections. Supportive care is always advised.
Keeping the eyes and nose clean, isolating the pet to reduce the spread, having a quiet and comfortable location out of the weather, and eating healthy meals can speed recovery and reduce severity.
Notifying your veterinarian is always prudent so a decision can be made regarding whether the pet needs to be seen. If symptoms persist or worsen, an immediate veterinary visit is recommended.
Close observation is essential to ensure the condition does not worsen, as mild upper respiratory conditions can quickly turn into pneumonia.
What is the Current Status?
- Like the common cold, canine respiratory diseases have always been with us.
- While the cause of this years CIRDC cases is still unknown, most experts agree the severity is no different than in previous years.
- In the US, veterinarians, state and federal diagnostic labs are working diligently gather information, and to determine the cause of this year’s outbreak.
- In Canada, the news media has not picked up on the story to the extent it has been reported in the US (https://globalnews.ca/news/10155938/dog-illness-canada-respiratory/ ). Veterinarians at the University of Guelph in Ontario are tracking the incidence of CIRDC cases using pet insurance data which has shown an increase in the incidence of CIRDC cases in several provinces including British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia.
What is Currently Recommended?
- It is important not to panic; seasonal respiratory illnesses are generally mild and resolve with time and treatment. While fatalities can occur, they are not common.
- Be sure to discuss vaccinations with your veterinarian.
- Avoid contact with sick pets. These diseases are spread through direct contact and droplets caused by coughing and sneezing.
- Limit exposure to large gatherings or groups of dogs.
- Keep sick dogs at home and seek veterinary care.
- Avoid communal water bowls shared by multiple dogs.
- Ask your veterinarian for advice on which vaccinations your dog should have. Common vaccinations include canine influenza, Bordetella, parainfluenza, and distemper.
- Support the pet’s immune system by providing the best nutrition possible, regular exercise, and a safe environment.
As always, Pet Planet will continue to monitor the situation and keep you informed as more information becomes available.