Pensacola veterinarians express concern due to an enigmatic respiratory ailment affecting dogs.

What is the enigmatic ailment affecting dogs?

According to a news release from the Oregon Department of Agriculture on November 9, the enigmatic ailment is referred to as an "unusual infectious respiratory disease" in canines. Indications of this disease comprise of coughing, sneezing, discharge from the eyes or nose, and fatigue.

WEAR News interviewed a local veterinarian to discuss how dog owners can detect and take preventive measures against this unidentified disease to ensure the well-being of their dogs.

Dr. Walter Gandy, owner of Coastal Sunrise Animal Hospital, emphasized the importance of not causing unnecessary alarm. Although cases of this mystery disease have not been widely reported in north Florida, Dr. Gandy advised dog owners to limit their pets' exposure to other dogs outside their immediate family if they have concerns.

While the cause of the infectious respiratory disease remains unknown, cases have been reported in multiple states. Dr. Gandy mentioned that he personally hasn't treated any cases of this illness, but he believes there has been an increase in respiratory illnesses among dogs in recent years. He suspects that the disease may be part of the canine infectious respiratory disease complex, which comprises a group of bacteria and viruses that cause respiratory illnesses in dogs.

Signs that your dog may be sick include a productive cough, runny nose, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Dr. Gandy explained that these upper respiratory diseases are typically transmitted through droplets and mists when dogs cough. Treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics and potentially steroids.

Dr. Gandy reassured dog owners that if their pets do not frequent public places, parks, or daycare, the risk of contracting such diseases is very low. However, veterinarians in various states are raising concerns as the illness can potentially be fatal.

WEAR News also spoke with a dog owner in Escambia County who confirmed that her dog is currently undergoing treatment for this mystery illness.

Dr. Gandy emphasized that while north Florida has not experienced as many cases as other parts of the country, dog owners should remain vigilant and attentive to their pets' symptoms. If owners suspect that their dogs may be sick, Dr. Gandy advised them to promptly seek veterinary care instead of waiting for a week to see if the condition improves.

If you observe that your pet is unwell, it is crucial to schedule a check-up with a veterinarian.

Numerous cats and dogs brought to the Emergency Referral Service at RVC Small Animal Referrals exhibit symptoms of respiratory distress (dyspnoea). This distress can either progress gradually or occur suddenly with minimal warning signs. Dyspnoea is a highly distressing condition for the patient and can worsen rapidly, posing a life-threatening situation. Consequently, every animal displaying respiratory distress must be treated as an emergency. They should be promptly assessed, closely monitored, and provided with emergency treatment while a diagnosis is established.

Manifestations of respiratory problems can vary greatly and may include coughing, noisy breathing, changes in voice, or reduced exercise capacity. More severe signs of breathing difficulties can include rapid breathing or continuous panting, prolonged and labored breathing, restlessness and distress, standing with elbows pointed outwards and neck extended, exaggerated or abnormal movement of the chest or abdomen during breathing, blue gums, collapse, and open mouth breathing in cats.

Respiratory distress can stem from various causes. Some common causes observed at RVC Small Animal Referrals include pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs caused by contagious diseases or inhalation of food or liquid after vomiting or regurgitation. Congestive heart failure, where the heart fails to function properly, leading to fluid accumulation in and around the lungs, is another cause. Asthma, characterized by inflammation and spasms in the airways, resulting in severe breathing difficulties, is also seen. Pyothorax, an infection in the chest between the body wall and the lungs, causing fluid buildup and compression of the lungs, impairs an animal's ability to breathe. Laryngeal paralysis, a condition where the throat muscles do not function correctly, restricts the opening necessary for sufficient air intake, particularly during heavy breathing.

These are just a few examples of the numerous causes of respiratory distress.