Man is at risk of losing their best friend as a mysterious canine respiratory illness continues to sweep the nation. While it can start as merely just a cough, there have been a multitude of reports where the illness progressed to pneumonia and eventually even death, leading to many veterinarians expressing their concern for the winter season.
Despite the sickness now being identified in 14 U.S. states, including Georgia, the cause is still unknown, making it difficult for veterinarians to warn dog owners of exactly what to be doing to avoid the infection. Alongside the unclear origins, the total number of cases across the country has also been difficult to track, as most states have yet to begin officially counting them with this disease being so new and unfamiliar; however, what has become apparent is that this disease is only spreading, and cases are continuing to rise as the season progresses.
“[Veterinarian Dr. Lindsey Ganzer] says she [has] seen over 30 dogs with what she believes to be the condition since October. At one point, two or three dogs a day with a mysterious cough would come to her hospital, and most needed hospitalization. She [has] lost at least four dogs to the illness, but they all had severe pneumonia by the time she started treating them,” an article from Today said.
While there is no specific breed or age that the mysterious illness is afflicting, veterinarians are warning people about sending their pets to daycares, groomers, and public parks, as most cases have been recorded in dogs who have spent lots of time in groups with other dogs. Those who typically board their dogs during the day or for vacations should look into home-sitters instead to limit their dog’s interactions with other pets.
“I am definitely concerned about [the illness]. I really love my dog, so it scares me that they could be put in so much pain,” Anthony Gregones, freshman, said.
If one is worried their dog or pet may have been infected, symptoms typically include abnormal coughing, sneezing, excessive exhaustion or tiredness, and discharge from the nose and eyes. One can also take their dog to a doctor’s office to test them for typical canine illnesses, and if the tests are negative, there is a high chance that these symptoms are from the mystery disease.
“My dog, Cubby Bear, is the most amazing dog ever; he is so sweet, kind, and lovable, and cuddly. If I lost him to this mystery disease, I would be so sad, and life would never be the same again,” Kelsie Mattson, sophomore, said.
If one has a pet that is truly loved, stay safe this holiday season and be on the lookout for symptoms. It is always best to catch them early, for it may even save a best friend’s life.
