21 Nov Pet Owner Resources – Canine Respiratory Illness

Mystery Respiratory Illness In Dogs

The cause of this illness is unknown at this time. Symptoms include upper respiratory signs including an unresolved cough according to the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Patients are testing negative for common respiratory complexes.

What Pet Owners Need to Know:

Do not assume this is “kennel cough” – call your veterinarian and seek immediate care.

• There are numerous news reports circulating information about the mystery respiratory illness in dogs.  While the cause is currently unknown, the GVMA recommends pet owners contact your regular veterinarian if you have concerns that your dog is experiencing symptoms related to this disease.

• Symptoms can include:
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Nasal/ocular discharge
  • Lethargy in your dog

• Going in for an appointment with your coughing dog? Ask your veterinarian’s office what their protocol is when you arrive to the hospital and be compliant to their policies – it will protect your pet and other people’s pets.
• Avoid sick dogs.
• If your pet is showing signs of an upper respiratory illness, please do not take them into public areas and contact any facilities where you may have holiday boarding reservations and update them.  
• Do not let your dog drink from communal water bowls.
• Ensure your dogs is up to date on recommended vaccinations from your veterinarian.
• With the holiday weekend before us, take time now to find out now which emergency veterinary facilities your veterinarian would like you to go to in case your pet becomes ill and needs immediate care.

If you have any questions or are worried your dog may be exhibiting signs of a respiratory infection, please call your primary veterinarian.