Mysterious Dog Illness Spreads Nationwide, Vets Advise Caution

Several veterinary hospitals in the Triad region of North Carolina have reported an influx of dogs presenting with symptoms of a respiratory illness, including coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. While North Carolina has not reported any cases of the canine respiratory illness, other states have, prompting concerns among dog owners. The American Veterinary Medical Association is investigating the infection, which appears to fall into three main syndromes: chronic tracheobronchitis, chronic pneumonia, and acute pneumonia. Veterinarians advise dog owners to ensure their pets are up to date on vaccines and limit their contact with other dogs, as the illness is highly contagious. However, they also reassure owners that the illness does not seem to be zoonotic, meaning it does not spread between dogs and humans or dogs and cats.