A Southern California family recounted how a “last-resort” antibiotic saved their show dog when he fell ill with a puzzling, treatment-resistant respiratory disease that has been affecting dogs across the United States.
The family’s Golden Retriever, Ike, fell ill in September while participating in dog shows, as reported by ABC7 Los Angeles. Ike was promptly taken to a veterinary hospital and quarantined, where multiple tests revealed that he was suffering from a mysterious canine respiratory illness known as the canine infectious respiratory disease complex.
Currently, there is no specific treatment or drug for this illness. However, a stranger online suggested using chloramphenicol, a powerful antibiotic typically used for serious bacterial infections. According to the family, Ike’s condition rapidly improved after the administration of chloramphenicol, and he was able to return home just days later.
“It’s a very, very strong last-resort antibiotic, but it’s what saved him,” Becky Oliver told ABC7. “Otherwise he would not be here.”
The disease has been reported in various states, including Oregon, Indiana, Illinois, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, and throughout the Northeast, with some cases proving fatal. The Oregon Department of Agriculture has received over 200 reports of the condition since August.
The Los Angeles County Public Health Department reported 10 cases in less than a week. While labs in other states have been investigating the illness since 2022, Long Island’s North Shore Animal League America has not observed any surge of the disease among its rescue population. Mark Verdino, the organization’s chief of veterinary staff, emphasized the importance of current vaccinations and prompt veterinary care for dogs, especially those that spend time in kennels, groomers, daycares, and dog parks.
Some dogs may exhibit symptoms of a typical upper respiratory disease, such as sneezing, a runny nose, coughing, and low energy. However, these dogs do not test positive for common diseases and instead suffer from a disease that is resistant to standard treatments. Vets are currently researching the mysterious illness, with some suggesting that another antibiotic, doxycycline, may also be effective.
The Oliver family’s experience highlights the urgent need to understand and address the growing canine respiratory illness and the importance of prompt veterinary care when dogs exhibit respiratory symptoms. While this situation remains puzzling, ongoing research and a rapid medical response can help protect dogs from this mysterious disease.
