As a mysterious respiratory illness spreads among dogs, owners are reconsidering boarding options for their pets during the holiday season.
A contagious mystery respiratory illness affecting dogs has left experts scrambling for answers and dog owners concerned about their pets’ well-being. The illness, which presents symptoms similar to kennel cough but is resistant to typical treatments, has proven fatal in some cases. With cases reported in over a dozen states across the country, the American Veterinary Medical Association is closely monitoring the situation. As experts strive to understand the cause and find a cure, dog owners are reevaluating their holiday boarding plans.
Should I avoid boarding my dog because of the mystery illness?
Dr. Lisa Lippman, Director of virtual medicine at Bond Vet, has been inundated with questions from concerned dog owners regarding the safety of boarding their pets. Lippman advises dog owners to avoid boarding their pets if possible, as any environment with a high concentration of dogs poses a risk for disease transmission. With the holiday season approaching, Lippman expresses particular concern about an increase in cases. If boarding cannot be avoided, Lippman suggests considering a trusted friend or a dogsitter at home as a safer alternative.
Consider if your dog is “high risk” for severe illness when deciding to board
Lippman emphasizes the importance of considering the age, breed, and health conditions of a dog when deciding whether or not to board them. Certain factors may increase the risk of severe illness if the dog contracts the mystery respiratory illness. Lippman highlights the following categories of dogs as “high risk”:
1. Flat-face breeds like pugs or bulldogs
2. Senior pets or very young pets
3. Pets with existing heart or lung diseases
Taking these risk factors into account can help dog owners make an informed decision about boarding their pets during this time.
What if I have to board my dog?
In cases where boarding is unavoidable, Lippman offers several tips to keep pets as safe and healthy as possible:
1. Ensure that your dog is up to date on vaccinations, including influenza, bordetella, and parainfluenza. Lippman suggests that this mystery illness may be a variant case of an existing disease, making vaccines potentially helpful in prevention.
2. Verify that the boarding facility requires all other dogs to be vaccinated and inquire about their plan for managing sick dogs on the premises.
Conclusion:
The contagious mystery respiratory illness in dogs has raised concerns among owners, particularly regarding boarding options during the holiday season. While experts continue to investigate the cause and search for a cure, dog owners are advised to avoid boarding their pets if possible. Factors such as age, breed, and existing health conditions can increase the risk of severe illness if a dog contracts the mystery illness. However, if boarding is necessary, ensuring up-to-date vaccinations and choosing a facility with strict vaccination requirements can help mitigate the risk. As the situation unfolds, dog owners must prioritize their pets’ health and safety while making informed decisions about their holiday accommodations.
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