Nov 30, 2023
"At the San Francisco Animal Care and Control shelter, spokesperson Deb Campbell told SFGATE there haven't been any signs of outbreaks or illnesses.
Jennifer Scarlett, CEO and veterinarian at the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), told SFGATE in an email she hasn’t seen an increase in respiratory disease or unusual cases at the nonprofit organization that includes a local hospital and adoption center.
“Most likely, what is happening is an increase in one or a combination of the usual pathogens with a whole lot more media attention,” Scarlett said."
https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/mystery-respiratory-dog-illness-bay-area-18520528.php
Nov 30, 2023
Trupanion recently convened a panel of global veterinary authorities and thought leaders to discuss this timely topic in a free 1hr webinar. Watch the recording here. Data includes Trupanion claim reports for respiratory issues across the country and in states with increases in claims.
Nov 28, 2023
"Over the course of the pandemic, dog ownership increased, and it is estimated that about 50% of households have at least one dog. As people have returned to work, and with travel over the holiday period, it is likely that there are more dogs being boarded, placed in dog “day care” facilities, and dogs are being looked after by other people that also have dogs. While the possibility of a new pathogen can’t be ruled out, it is also possible that increased respiratory illness is the result of these circumstances, and that disease may be more severe or prolonged because of co-infections with multiple organisms. Because respiratory illness in dogs is not tracked through reporting, it is not clear whether this represents a true epidemic or whether social media activity has contributed to what is known as an “infodemic.”
Owners of dogs that contact other dogs in the community should be aware of the existence of CIRDC and be proactive to reduce the chance that their dog develops illness.
Ensure your dog(s) are vaccinated against the pathogens for which vaccines are available (Bordetella, parainfluenza, influenza H3N2, canine adenovirus, and distemper), as well as other infectious diseases for which vaccination is recommended.
If you must board your dog(s):
Ensure your dog(s) are vaccinated at least one week before entering the facility.
Use reputable facilities that practice good hygiene, do not board large numbers of dogs simultaneously, and that require proof of vaccination for Bordetella, parainfluenza, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, H3N2 influenza virus, and Leptospira with a booster at least one week in advance of boarding.
If you adopt a dog from a breeder or shelter, keep it away from other dogs for 2 weeks to make sure it does not break with respiratory illness, which could then be transmitted to other dogs in the community (or other illness such as diarrhea). Choose to purchase dogs from North America rather than importing a dog from another country where different pathogens may be circulating. The stress of importation can also contribute to increased severity of illness.
If your dog develops signs of respiratory illness, keep it away from other dogs for at least 2 weeks, and ideally until signs have ceased. If your dog has respiratory signs and is lethargic or eating less, contact your veterinarian and let them know if there is a possibility your dog has a contagious respiratory disease. They will then take appropriate precautions to minimize transmission in the waiting room and other parts of the hospital should hospitalization be required.
Remember there are other causes of respiratory signs that are not contagious, like fungal disease, heart failure, migrating plant awns, and cancer, so do not assume that your dog has CIRDC if your dog develops illness. Your dog should be evaluated by a veterinarian if signs persist more than a few days or are getting worse, and as soon as possible if your dog is lethargic or not eating."
