The mystery illness affecting dogs has been reported to be highly contagious and sometimes fatal. The reported symptoms include coughing, sneezing, nasal and/or eye discharge, and lethargy. The illness has been compared to a typical kennel cough but with a wet cough that makes the dog feel sick.
It is recommended to isolate dogs showing symptoms, get them checked by a vet, and keep them away from other dogs for two weeks after the cough goes away. The disease has been reported nationwide, with cases first appearing in Oregon and then spreading to other states.
Research is ongoing to determine the cause of the illness and to find ways to keep pets safe.
Table of Contents
How to protect the dogs from the mystery illness?
Keep up with routine vaccinations, especially for young dogs:
- This is the first step in keeping pets healthy.
Isolate dogs showing symptoms:
- If symptoms are observed, isolate the affected dogs.
- Get them checked by a vet.
- Keep them away from other dogs for two weeks after the cough goes away.
Regularly check over pets when they come inside:
- Be vigilant for any signs of illness.
- Schedule a vet appointment if any signs are detected.
Speak with a vet for preventatives:
- Consult with a vet to determine the best flea and tick preventatives.
- Discuss suitable heartworm preventatives for pets.
Let the vet fully evaluate pets showing consistent coughing:
- If consistent coughing is observed, consult with a vet.
- Consider an ultrasound of the lungs to check for related problems.
These measures can help dog owners protect their pets from the mysterious illness while research is ongoing to determine the cause and find ways to keep pets safe.
What are the symptoms of the mystery illness in dogs?
Symptoms of the Mystery Illness:
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Bloody stools
- Profoundly low white blood cell counts
Similar Symptoms to Kennel Cough:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Nasal and/or eye discharge
- Loss of appetite
It is crucial for dog owners to be vigilant and seek veterinary attention immediately if their dog shows signs of illness. Early intervention with supportive care can significantly improve the possibility of successful treatment and full recovery.
What is the treatment for the mystery illness in dogs?
Early Intervention of Supportive Care:
- Early intervention with supportive care is crucial for successful treatment and full recovery.
Pneumonia Treatment:
- In most cases, onset of pneumonia in dogs can be treated with antibiotics.
- For more severe cases, antibiotics alone may not be sufficient.
- Affected dogs may require mechanical ventilation and intensive care.
Preventive Measures for Elderly or Chronically Ill Dogs:
- Keep elderly dogs or those with chronic illnesses away from areas frequented by other dogs.
- Ensure dogs are up to date on monthly heartworm preventives, including products to control intestinal parasites.
- Intestinal parasites can create conditions allowing other diseases, such as viruses, to take hold and make otherwise healthy dogs sick.
Crucial Steps if a Dog Shows Signs of Illness:
- If a dog shows signs of illness, avoid exposing other dogs.
- Seek veterinary attention immediately.
Ongoing Research:
- Ongoing research is in progress to identify the cause of the illness and develop specific treatments.
- However, early detection and intervention remain critical in managing the mystery illness in dogs.
Hotspots of the mystery Dog Illness
Origins and Spread:
- Cases initially reported in Michigan and Oregon.
- Subsequently, the mystery illness has spread nationwide.
Affected Population:
- Primarily affects young dogs who have not completed their vaccination series.
Comparison to Kennel Cough:
- Described as similar to a typical kennel cough.
- However, it includes a wet cough that makes the dog feel sick.
Importance of Vigilance and Early Intervention:
- Dog owners should be vigilant and seek veterinary attention immediately if signs of illness are observed.
- Early intervention with supportive care can improve the possibility of successful treatment and full recovery.