Canine Respiratory Infection

Veterinarians across the U.S. have recently seen an increase in the number of acute respiratory infections reported in dogs. Many of these patients are not responding to traditional therapies. Northeast Animal Hospital has not experienced an increase in such cases. But we share your concerns and would like to provide more information that can answer some questions you may have.

It is not yet known whether the cause of this atypical illness is a new pathogen, or is a variant of “kennel cough” or other existing virus. It is also unclear how the infection is spreading. One possibility is that dogs—who may not display symptoms—pick up the pathogen from kennels, dog parks, or other places where dogs gather, and pass it to other dogs.

The disease ranges from mild respiratory symptoms to severe, life-threatening pneumonia. It is important to let your vet examine and treat your dog at the first signs of respiratory distress. Watch your dog for coughing, sneezing, eye and nose discharge, fever, and tiredness. If you see any of these symptoms in your dog, call us right away at (727) 822-8501.

For more information regarding this illness, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention, please see this webpage: https://sheltermedicine.vetmed.ufl.edu/2023/11/27/mysterious-respiratory-disease/