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Should You Be Worried About Canine Respiratory Illness?

January 25, 2024 by

Canine respiratory illness is a dangerous infection that spreads rapidly. Without proper treatment, your dog can develop pneumonia, which can be fatal. The illness has been detected in at least 16 states so far, and veterinarians are not sure if it is viral or bacterial, how to treat it, or what causes it. Let’s take a look at everything we know about the illness so far.

Where Canine Respiratory Illness Has Been Detected

Canine respiratory illness is part of the canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC). It is caused by one of several different highly contagious viral or bacterial pathogens. The disease starts with mild symptoms that rapidly progress, resulting in acute pneumonia and potentially death. The illness has been detected in:

  • Arizona.
  • Colorado.
  • Florida.
  • Idaho.
  • Illinois.
  • Pennsylvania.
  • New Hampshire.
  • Washington.
  • Georgia.
  • Oregon.
  • California.
  • Rhode Island.
  • Maryland.
  • Delaware.
  • Nevada.

Symptoms of Canine Respiratory Illness

Be aware of the symptoms of canine respiratory illness so that you can get your dog treatment as soon as possible:

  • Coughing and sneezing.
  • Wheezing or labored breathing.
  • Blue or purple gums.
  • Lethargy and loss of interest in activities.
  • Nasal or eye discharge.
  • Red, watery eyes.
  • Fever.
  • Weight loss and loss of appetite.
  • Dehydration. 

Preventing and Treating Canine Respiratory Illness

There is no vaccination against canine respiratory illness, but getting your dog vaccinated against other respiratory diseases can offer your dog some protection. You can also take these steps to protect your dog:

  • Don’t board your dog in a kennel or boarding facility.
  • Avoid areas with high populations of dogs like dog parks, doggy daycare, dog grooming salons, and homes with other dogs.
  • Keep your dog from sniffing or touching noses with other dogs.
  • Don’t let your dog share food or water bowls or toys with other dogs.

Call your veterinarian or take your dog to a veterinary hospital right away if you recognize any symptoms of canine respiratory illness.