Mysterious Canine Respiratory Ailment Affects Dogs In Various US States

A mysterious respiratory disease is causing concern amongst veterinary labs in the United States. The disease, which appears to be resistant to antibiotics, has been afflicting dogs in various states, leading to a lingering illness.

What Happened: According to a recent report by the Associated Press, dogs suffering from the disease are experiencing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, and lethargy. In severe cases, dogs have reportedly become critically unwell within a span of 24 to 36 hours.

The states of Oregon, Colorado, and New Hampshire have reported numerous instances of this disease. Since mid-August 2023, the Oregon Department of Agriculture has recorded over 200 instances alone and is now working in collaboration with state researchers and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratory to identify the cause of this condition.

As per Kurt Williams, the director of the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University, there have been fatalities due to this disease. However, the precise number remains unclear owing to the absence of specific tests for this condition. Williams urges dog owners to remain calm and ensure their dogs’ vaccinations are up to date, including those for respiratory diseases.

David Needle, a senior veterinary pathologist at the University of New Hampshire's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, who has been examining this disease for nearly a year, advises dog owners to limit their pets’ contact with other dogs.

Photo by SakSa on Shutterstock

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