New Dog Virus 2023
I am sure you have seen in the news over the past few weeks that there is a "new" dog virus. We have been following this for several months now and have inside information from several veterinarians in our area. I will spell out what we know from the facts, from what is being studied at leading universities, and from what the news is reporting.
First and foremost, it saddens me that dogs have lost their lives to a pneumonia type virus. Prevention is important. The facts are slowly being uncovered as they study each case in depth.
Things we know for sure: This virus mimics kennel cough at onset, with cough, sneezing, runny nose, and sometimes lethargic symptoms. The dog quickly goes downhill and develops a wet cough that is not a normal symptom of kennel cough. Unfortunately, many people do not go to the vet immediately since kennel cough is more bothersome than dangerous. Once they do go to the vet, the dog has pneumonia. The normal antibiotics used for kennel cough, Doxycycline, is not effective. Clavamox, and Chloramphenicol have both been used effectively in many cases. In our area we have been seeing some odd, resistant pneumonia's that have been difficult to treat. Veterinarians have been successfully treating most cases. It is currently believed to be a bacterial infection rather than a viral one. It is also believed to occur in dogs that are immune compromised more often than not. Simple things like stress, or a female that is close to her heat cycle, can cause a lowered immune system. On the medical side, it can be age, thyroid issues, Cushing’s, diabetes or IBD.
As a pet parent, what should you do? Our recommendations are as follows: Immediately see a vet if your dog has any of the above symptoms. If your vet does not see the need for antibiotics, request one of the above-mentioned medications that have been proven to work. Tell your vet that you are your dogs' only advocate and would like him to be treated as if he has this virus. There is no test for it at this time. I personally would have him recheck daily for several days to ensure things are moving in the right direction.
So, how to avoid the virus all together? Stay out of dog parks. I am not a fan of dog parks for many reasons, the first being the spread of germs, parasites and fungus. Do not let your dog touch nose to nose when out on walks or visiting stores. I would avoid doggie day care or boarding facilities unless absolutely your only option. If you do board, ask about their cleaning protocols. Ask that your dog not be nose to nose or loose with other dogs.
Grooming is a health requirement for many breeds. All dogs need their nails done every 4 to 6 weeks to ensure healthy feet and joints. Ask your groomer what their cleaning protocols are and what plans they have in place to keep your dog from getting too close to other dogs. This virus is here for the long haul just as kennel cough and influenza have been. You cannot skip a month of grooming to ensure the safety of your dog. As time goes on, more information will come to light as they study each case. They will figure out a science that fits and will keep most dogs safe. Veterinarians will come up with a treatment plan as more studies are done.
My thoughts, based on many articles from veterinary universities, local veterinarians, people that have dealt with this virus and won as well as those that have lost, are as follows: Treat this like we did Covid, keep a distance, avoid public crowds of dogs. Do not dismiss any of the symptoms. Seek a veterinarians care immediately if you notice any symptoms. The news, as always, has sensationalized this causing panic. As pet owners, it is our job to educate ourselves from reputable sources and protect our pets. Common sense and caution are much more valuable than panic. We will continue to monitor our sources and update when possible.
A few years ago, it was canine influenza that caused panic. It took a few months to figure out what protocol to use as treatment and to come up with a vaccine. I hope that is also the case with this new virus.
