Latest Update on Canine Respiratory Illness

Canine Respiratory Illness Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the symptoms?

Early research has shown the illness is likely a bacterial infection and not a virus as many have assumed. The symptoms are very similar to those of other respiratory illnesses in dogs and include sneezing, lethargy, loss of appetite, labored breathing, and/or nasal discharge. It is important to note that just because a dog has one or more of these symptoms doesn’t mean they have the illness – the same way a runny nose and sore throat can be a cold, flu, COVID, or allergies in humans. If a dog is experiencing any of the above symptoms, owners should contact their veterinarian.

• Are there cases in Arizona?

As of December 4, there have been two reported cases in Arizona. Both these dogs became ill after returning from a dog show in Oregon in October. Since then, there have not been any additional reports in Arizona.

• When did the illness arise?

The canine respiratory illness now being heavily publicized is not new. The first cases were noticed back in 2022 in New Hampshire. The increase in media attention lately is likely due to cases being discovered in Oregon, but it is important to note that labs have been studying the illness for more than a year. It is important to note that while labs have been studying the illness, there currently is not a test for this specific strain.

• How serious is this illness? How is this illness different than kennel cough?

From what we have seen so far, the dogs will this illness are sicker than those with a typical cold or kennel cough. They are often more lethargic and more likely to develop pneumonia than a typical canine cough or cold, which is why it is important to bring your dog to the vet sooner rather than later if they are experiencing cold-like symptoms.

• How can owners keep their dogs safe?

The most important thing to do is make sure your dog is living a healthy lifestyle, including getting outside to exercise. Owners should also make sure dogs are up to date on vaccines which can provide extra protection for dogs with weaker immune systems (puppies and older dogs). Owners are also advised to take some extra precautions such as not allowing dogs to share food or water bowls, keeping your dog home if they are showing any symptoms of illness, and avoiding interactions with unknown dogs while out on walks.

• Does this illness affect other animals or humans?

As far as we know there are no effects on other animals or humans. This illness is only affecting dogs.

• Is AHS doing anything different in caring for dogs with respiratory illness during this time?

No, we continue the same protocols we use with any dog that presents with signs of a respiratory illness.