Pet Health · November 2023
Respiratory Alert: what dog owners should know
An emerging respiratory illness was spreading among dogs across the U.S. Here is what we told our clients at the time, and the precautions that still hold up.
Originally published 20 November 2023. Retained here for reference — if your dog is currently showing respiratory symptoms, please book a sick visit or call us on (904) 770-5326 rather than relying on an older article.
Dear pet owners,
We hope this message finds you and your furry family members well. We want to inform you about a health concern affecting our canine companions. There is an emerging respiratory disease spreading among dogs, and we believe it is essential to keep you informed so you can take the best care of your pets.
What we know
Symptoms
Dogs affected by this illness may show a loss of appetite, lethargy, nasal discharge, and a cough. Some dogs have a cough for a prolonged period — six to eight weeks — and some develop pneumonia. There have been dogs who develop an acute illness and die, but fortunately that is not common.
How it spreads
Through direct contact and airborne particles. Human hands and clothing can also carry it between dogs.
Response to treatment
Traditional treatments for kennel cough, such as doxycycline, have not been effective. However, other antibiotics may be showing better results.
Preventive measures
To protect your pet, it is crucial to avoid dog-to-dog contact if your pet is coughing. We also advise being mindful of the potential for humans to transfer the disease to dogs via hands and clothing.
Action steps for pet owners
1. Be vigilant. If your dog shows any symptoms like coughing or lethargy, isolate them from other dogs and contact your veterinarian immediately.
2. Check vaccinations. Ensure your pet's vaccinations, especially for respiratory diseases such as Bordetella and canine influenza, are up to date. This is particularly important now, as one respiratory infection can make dogs more susceptible to others.
3. Take care with boarding and grooming. With the holiday season approaching, many of us will be boarding or grooming our pets. Confirm that your boarding or grooming facility checks the vaccination status of all dogs they admit.
Remember
While this situation is concerning, there is no need to panic. Our goal is to keep you informed and your pets safe. By taking these precautionary measures, we can all contribute to the well-being of our canine friends.
Worried about your dog? Bordetella and influenza vaccinations are available as part of our mobile visits, and a sick visit brings full diagnostics to your driveway if your dog is already showing symptoms.
