Mystery Dog Illness: What’s Causing Severe Cough to ‘Man’s Best Friend’ in 15 US States?

Dogs in at least 15 US states are facing a severe respiratory illness akin to “kennel cough,” but with a more dangerous twist. Unlike typical cases that clear up, these infections, affecting “man’s best friend,” result in pneumonia and some even death.

First reported in the US state of Oregon in the summer, veterinarians across the country have reported an unspecified number of cases of what is being called “atypical canine infectious respiratory disease.” Symptoms of this mysterious illness include coughing that can last four to six weeks, which could be mild bronchitis or could escalate to pneumonia, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Some acute cases have quickly become pneumonia within 24 to 36 hours.

Challenges in Identification

US veterinary investigators are grappling with challenges in identifying the causative agent. AMVA experts argue that the probe has been slowed partly by a lack of funding. However, initial testing suggests a potential bacterial involvement, but the diversity of cases and the inability to culture the infectious agent complicate the situation.

Research teams are working to determine if this is an emerging pathogen or if it has been present but overlooked. The transmission of the illness occurs through direct or indirect contact, posing a higher risk for dogs with extensive travel or frequent exposure to other dogs. Kennels, dog parks, and crowded environments elevate the risk.

But What’s Causing this Illness?

Researchers are having trouble tracking down the organism responsible for these strange illnesses, says David Needle, a veterinary pathologist at the New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, according to American science magazine Scientific American.

Following months of work, the US experts have found a bacterium that they’re beginning to think is the culprit. According to Needle, it’s a small bacterium that boasts a genome unusually rich in the DNA “letters” adenine and thymine and poor in cytosine and guanine.

The bacterium, which is atypical for most organisms, also seems to be missing key genes that would allow it to survive on its own in the environment. The US-based researcher says he hopes his team will be able to confirm the identity of this mysterious pathogen within the next three to six weeks as sequencing and other testing continues.

As of now, there is no evidence of human transmission but the situation underscores the need for robust One Health surveillance systems, fostering communication between human and animal health agencies.

The outbreak underlines the necessity of investing in systematic reporting and enhancing diagnostic capabilities in veterinary laboratories. Experts believe that improved surveillance and diagnostics can aid in tracking and responding to similar events in the future.

Preventive Measures and Best Practices

Dog owners in the US are advised to ensure their pets are up to date on vaccinations and to monitor them for symptoms. Limiting exposure to high-risk environments, especially for sick dogs, is crucial. Despite concerns, responsible pet care practices, including routine vaccinations, remain essential, stressing the importance of maintaining overall pet health.

“While the existing vaccines may not specifically target this unknown infection, maintaining overall health through routine vaccinations can help support a dog’s immune system in combating various infections,” Rena Carlson, president of the AVMA said in a statement. “Owners should monitor their dogs closely for progressive coughing that may be accompanied by signs of ocular or nasal discharges and sneezing,” she said.