EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WEVV) — A mysterious canine virus that's causing some cities to close their dog parks until further notice, has the potential to be deadly and has sickened pets in at least 14 states.
The still unknown virus has spread from coast to coast and has been reported across the Midwest in several cities, including Evansville.
This outbreak shares many of the same symptoms as other common respiratory viruses, however cases can become life threatening, as it doesn't respond to antibiotics.
Experts say the new illness can be brought on by multiple pathogens at once such as dog flu, kennel cough, and pneumonia.
Melissa Moseby, the owner of All Breeds Grooming, Boarding, and Daycare, says, “We can't prevent it, it's airborne, but we do everything we possibly can to make sure they stay safe.”
Moseby says she sees an uptick of respiratory illnesses during the holiday season.
As the respiratory viruses are highly contagious, Moseby and her staff are making changes to reduce the risk of any illnesses being spread throughout the dogs in her daycare.
“We're making sure all the toys are going to be picked up, all the bowls are going to be switched out every thirty minutes, and dogs are sent home when they are sick, ” says Moseby.
Veterinarians say the best way to help prevent your dog from catching any airborne illness is to avoid those canine populated areas such as dog parks.
Dog owner, David Haller, says, “We prefer to walk him around the neighborhood. We don't really like to take him to dog parks.”
Symptoms you should look out for include lethargy, coughing, sneezing, and eye discharge.
“Make sure that you're giving your dog's lots of fluids. Make sure they're drinking lots of water and they're staying hydrated. This can cause fever in dogs as well, so you just want to make sure that they don't get dehydrated while this is happening to them, ” says Moseby.
If your dog shows signs of these symptoms, it's important to seek advice from a veterinarian as well as avoiding contact with other dogs for 10 to 14 days.
