Arkansas vets warn of mystery dog illness

CONWAY, Ark. — It's the last thing dog owners want to hear – a mystery infection affecting dogs' respiratory systems nationwide.

“Animals have become parts of our families,” Good Shepherd Animal Clinic Owner Dr. Lori Smith said. “That's become a big concern for many people, and many households have dogs.”

The illness has been reported in multiple states, including Oregon, Colorado, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

“It's not been documented in our state yet, ” Smith said.

The name of the illness is unknown, but experts said the symptoms are similar to kennel cough, like runny noses, eyes and fatigue. If you plan on traveling to one of those affected states, Smith said you should consider having your dog checked when you return.

“It's definitely worth getting it checked out,” Smith said. “I wouldn't sit on this because these dogs seem to be progressing into pneumonia much quicker than they are with other respiratory diseases.”

If you plan on traveling for the holidays, Smith said it may be best to keep your dog to themselves.

“If you're going out of state into one of those areas, I'd avoid dog parks, places like that,” Smith said. “Even like pet stores that allow dogs, anywhere like that. Bring your own water source, food bowls; don't let them drink from where other dogs have been.”

It's a little scary to think about a mystery disease affecting our pets, but Smith said as long as you know the symptoms, you may be alright.

“There's definitely things to try and avoid… big exposure,” Smith said.