Pet owners beware: Unusual respiratory illness in dogs investigated in CO

By jennyd on November 20, 2023

Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Peter Arnell)

Right before the holidays there is a new mysterious illness effecting DOGS in Colorado and it does not respond to antibiotics!

Here are some things to know:

• Oregon, Colorado, and New Hampshire have seen cases of the illness
• Illness causes lasting respiratory disease and pneumonia in dogs
• Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, discharge, and lethargy
• Disease progresses quickly, making dogs very sick within 24-36 hours
• Veterinarians are unsure of the cause and there is no specific treatment
• Oregon has documented over 200 cases and is working with researchers to find the cause
• Dogs have died from severe form of the infection, but exact number is unknown
• Veterinarians recommend basic precautions to keep pets healthy
• Pet owners should keep dogs away from other dogs and ensure vaccines are up-to-date