Recently, there has been news about a new respiratory infection that has been affecting dogs. While there are not a lot of specific details about extent and cause of the illness, it is important to stay properly informed as a pet parent. At this time, there are only a few states that have noticed an uptick in respiratory cases in their dog populations, and Ohio is not one of them. This is a time of year we typically see an increase in respiratory cases every year because of the change in weather, increase in dogs being boarded, and more dogs getting groomed for the holidays. As with any illness, the most risk is with youngest and oldest members of the population as well as pets with other illnesses or disease because their immune system may not be fully protective.
To help prevent respiratory illness, it is important to keep your dog properly vaccinated which includes protection against Bordetella and Canine Influenza in addition to the core vaccines (Rabies, Distemper, Parvo, etc.). If you have a dog under 4 months or age or an elderly pet, be conscious of taking them places where there may be large groups of dogs. A groomer that requires vaccines versus a dog park with dogs of unknown vaccine status are totally different environments. If your dog is coughing, don’t take them places where there will be other dogs because they could spread their illness.
If your dog does develop a cough, please contact Faithful Friends for advice because most dogs will recover without treatment or only need a short course medication, but if it becomes lethargic, will not eat, or the cough worsens, it may need further medical work-up and treatment. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here to help.
Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving,
Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic
