Unexplained Dog Respiratory Illness Sparks Concern and Closures

Veterinarians are grappling with a surge in severe respiratory illnesses affecting dogs across the United States and Canada. The cause of the outbreak is still unknown, but experts suspect that a combination of factors, including decreased exposure to viruses and bacteria due to pandemic restrictions and lower vaccination rates, may be contributing to the increase in cases. The illness is different from typical respiratory infections, with a higher number of cases leading to pneumonia. Researchers are working to identify the cause, including a possible novel bacterium, but the lack of a centralized system for tracking pet illnesses and the high cost of treatment pose challenges. Owners are advised to be vigilant for symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing, and seek veterinary care if necessary.