We want to make you aware of the current respiratory outbreak of multiple pathogens affecting dogs throughout the country. As reported by Upstate Veterinary Hospital in Greenville, South Carolina, there are multiple strains of Canine Influenza moving rapidly through Western North Carolina. Two strains of Group A influenza (H3N8 and H3N2) have apparently been identified in this latest outbreak.
Additionally, many of the local boarding facilities, doggy day cares, as well as grooming facilities are dealing with outbreaks of Mycoplasma and Kennel Cough.
The Triad is also experiencing a more severe respiratory pathogen that is more apt to progress to pneumonia. WRAL in Raleigh has recently provided information explaining that 450 cases of this respiratory illness have been diagnosed since April of 2022 at just one veterinary hospital alone.
Until the outbreak dies down, we are recommending that all dogs receive the Canine Influenza vaccination annually as well as booster the Canine Bordetella vaccination every 6 months instead of 12 months. Furthermore, we recommend to refrain from social interactions with other dogs as much as possible to help prevent the spread of the illness.
If you pet does develop signs of coughing, sneezing, eye discharge, and or lethargy, please contact us immediately to discuss the best course of action.
Diagnosis of the illness is based on each individualized patient, but may include respiratory pathogen testing via conjunctival/ oral swabs and or radiographs of the chest. Treatment options are many but consist of oral antibiotics, antitussives, nebulization therapies and oxygen therapy.
If you have further questions about this outbreak, please contact us at 828-513-5134.
