Mysterious Respiratory Illness Affecting Dogs Across the U.S.

Veterinarians and pet owners are raising alarms about a mysterious respiratory illness spreading among dogs in the United States. This illness, characterized by persistent coughing, sneezing, lethargy, fever, and in severe cases, pneumonia, has baffled experts as its exact cause remains unknown. The disease appears to spread rapidly in settings where dogs gather, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and grooming salons, increasing the risk of exposure for unvaccinated or vulnerable pets.

Preventative measures are crucial to keeping pets safe. Experts recommend minimizing visits to crowded dog-friendly spaces, maintaining up-to-date vaccinations (including those for canine influenza), and practicing good hygiene for pet-related items.

For dog owners, early detection is key—symptoms like nasal discharge or difficulty breathing should prompt an immediate visit to the vet.

While some cases resolve with mild treatment, others progress to life-threatening conditions requiring intensive care. T

esting for known respiratory pathogens has so far provided no conclusive answers, and veterinarians continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance in protecting pets during this outbreak.

For more details, visit Live Science​

and University of Florida Shelter Medicine​