A mysterious and potentially fatal respiratory illness is emerging in dogs across multiple US states, leaving veterinarians bewildered and on a mission to identify the underlying cause.
The disease starts with a persistent cough that can last for weeks, unresponsive to typical treatments like antibiotics. This puzzling condition has already claimed the lives of some dogs, causing worry among pet owners and healthcare professionals.
Dr. Lindsey Ganzer, CEO of North Springs Veterinary Referral Center, provides insights into the rapid progression of the illness, noting its quick transition from a prolonged cough to severe pneumonia. Cases at her hospital have been increasing, with around 30 affected dogs since mid-October, and the numbers continue to rise.
While recognizing the concern among dog owners, Dr. Kurt Williams from the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostics Lab advises a cautious but not paralyzed approach. He recommends preventive measures, such as limiting exposure to other dogs and ensuring vaccinations are up to date, particularly against respiratory diseases.
Dogs with this mystery illness display symptoms like coughing, sneezing, eye or nose discharge, and fatigue, testing negative for common respiratory causes. The Oregon Department of Agriculture has reported over 200 cases in the state since mid-August, urging veterinarians to report instances to assist ongoing investigations.
Dr. Amanda Cavanagh from Colorado State University James L Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital observes an unusual increase in coughing cases, challenging the typical seasonal decline in veterinary settings. The challenge lies in categorizing cases under investigation due to various causes of canine cough, requiring time to eliminate known factors.
Dr. Williams speculates the possibility of a virus based on the contagious nature of cases. However, he stresses the need for an open-minded exploration of other potential causes. The illness manifests in three ways: a lingering cough, chronic pneumonia unresponsive to antibiotics, or severe pneumonia leading to poor outcomes within 24 to 36 hours.
The outbreak extends beyond Oregon, reaching states such as Colorado, New Hampshire, California, Indiana, Illinois, Washington, Idaho, Georgia, and Florida. The American Veterinary Medical Association monitors the situation, highlighting the unknown cause of the illness.
