Canine respiratory illness has been sweeping the nation. This mysterious condition has impacted hundreds of dogs in as many as 16 States, making it a widespread concern for pet owners everywhere. While the cause and treatment are not yet understood, research has discovered that this illness is highly contagious and contracted when a dog comes in contact with another, infected dog. To keep this potentially fatal condition out of your home, we’re here to discuss effective prevention strategies to keep your dog safe, happy, and healthy.
Get To Know The Symptoms
Your first line of defense in combating canine respiratory illness is understanding the signs to look out for. It comes on as a flu-like illness, with symptoms that resemble that of other more common respiratory conditions, such as coughing, wheezing, sneezing, and nasal and eye discharge. As the illness develops quickly, these minor discomforts can rapidly spiral into a fever, lethargy, weight loss, dehydration, and eventually, pneumonia. As such, understanding the symptoms allows you to monitor your dog and identify these concerns the moment they appear, allowing you to pursue immediate veterinary care.
Refrain From Visiting High-Risk Areas
Canine respiratory illness is contagious and spreads at alarming rates via dog-to-dog contact. To keep your dog healthy, it’s imperative to refrain from visiting high-risk areas. These areas may include dog parks, doggy daycare programs, boarding and kennel facilities, and other crowded events.
Prioritize Immunization
While there is no set cure or vaccination for canine respiratory illness, veterinarians suggest that pet owners get proactive about their pets’ immunizations to strengthen their ability to combat respiratory concerns. If your dog is not fully vaccinated, there has never been a better time to contact your veterinarian to schedule a vaccination appointment.
For more prevention strategies to keep your dog safe, contact your trusted veterinarian today.