How To Protect Your Dog From the Mystery Illness

You might’ve heard about a mysterious respiratory illness reported in dogs in Pennsylvania and at least 15 other states. So, how can you protect your dog and what are the symptoms? I’ve got you covered below.

What Is the Illness?

Although medical experts have not been able to figure out the cause of the respiratory illness, Dr. Deborah Silverstein at the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School told 6ABC that it could be a form of Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex, also known as kennel cough. Or, it could be a different illness altogether. Some symptoms to look out for include labored breathing, coughing, sneezing, nose or eye discharge, lethargy or decreased appetite, and pneumonia.

How Can You Protect Your Dog?

The illness is spread from dog to dog, so it’s best to stay away from boarding houses, pet daycares, and dog parks. Dogs should also not share toys or bowls with others. If you’re going away for the holidays and normally board your dog, try to find a family or friend to dog sit. You also want to keep up to date on all of your dog’s vaccines.

What’s the Outlook in Philly?

Many of the dogs who catch this respiratory illness survive. Some dogs in Pennsylvania have reported symptoms of the illness, but cases have so far not been reported in Philadelphia.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture encourages pet owners with a sick dog to contact their vet as soon as possible, when treatment might be most effective, NBC10 reports.

🐶 Do you have any other tips? Has your dog been sick lately? I want to know.