Dog owners need to be careful about their pets’ coughs, a WA veterinarian has warned, as an unidentified canine respiratory disease spreads across the United States.
As of Tuesday, no cases had been reported in Washington state, but cases had been recorded in four other states: Oregon, Colorado, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. veterinarians in washington state Amber Eitle urged dog owners to be careful because experts believe the disease may be widespread beyond just the states where it has been confirmed.
The disease causes pneumonia and does not respond to antibiotics, according to a news release from the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, runny nose or eye discharge, and fatigue. Some cases of pneumonia progress rapidly and the dog becomes critically ill within 24 to 36 hours.
Dogs are more susceptible to respiratory illnesses this time of year, so Ittle recommends taking extra precautions, such as keeping your dog vaccinated and keeping them away from areas where dogs congregate. If your dog must be kept with many other dogs, your veterinarian may recommend additional vaccines.
Experts have not confirmed any cases of the disease being transmitted to humans.
More than 200 cases have been recorded in Oregon, and some dogs have died.
Veterinarians are asked to report cases of illness in dogs. WSDA Online Reporting Tool.
“By working together, we can get ahead of potential outbreaks and keep our furry friends healthy and happy,” Aitor said in a news release.