The mystery illness that has affected dogs across the country recently, has spread to at least 14 states. The respiratory condition, which is yet to be identified, can be fatal.
We don’t want to spread panic but we think awareness and advice are important under the circumstances. So here is what we know so far and what dog parents can do to help protect their dogs.
What is the mystery dog illness?
Veterinarians and scientists have yet to identify for certain the cause of the pneumonia-like illness but there are common conditions, signs and symptoms for which you should be on the lookout. According to the AVMA they are:
- Chronic mild-moderate tracheobronchitis − a sudden or long-term inflammation of the trachea and bronchial airways that is barely or non-responsive to antibiotics.
- Chronic pneumonia not responsive to antibiotics.
- Acute pneumonia that quickly turns severe (can be as short as 24 hours).
- Difficulty or rapid breathing, wheezing, dehydration, fever, nasal or eye discharge, weight loss, loss of appetite and lethargy.
Where is the mystery dog illness?
The illness has been detected, currently, in 14 states. They are:
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Washington
These are just the states where cases have been reported. The illness appears to be transmissible and our guess is it’s likely to affect more of the country if it hasn’t already.
I am cancelling the Holiday Party but I am keeping Santa on December 16 from 1:00pm to 2:30pm. Dogs will meet Santa individually. You will come in by the front door of the daycare, take a picture with Santa and exit by the back door. There won’t be any interaction with dogs. Water will be dispensed to the pups if needed in disposable bowls.
I will ask that you not bring your dog to the open house if any of the following have occurred in the past ten days:
. You have taken your dog to the veterinarian for routine stuff (shots, etc.)
• You have taken your dog to a dog park,
• You have taken your dog to a training class with other dogs,
• You have taken your dog to another daycare or boarding facility,
• You have allowed your dog to say hello to other dogs on your walks.
If any dog coughs or sneezes or has runny nose or runny eyes, its owner will be asked to immediately remove him/her.
This is the best I can do. Sorry guys…. There is still next year!
ON THE DAYCARE SIDE:
We will only accept campers who had no intereaction with other dogs at any place (veterinarian, dog park, groomer, training classes, another daycare or another boarding facility or if you allow your dog to say hello to other dogs during your daily walks.
No more sharing water at the pools or at daycare. Disposable bowls only. Daycare has air purifiers, we disinfect toys and floors in our regular protocol.
