In recent months, a mysterious respiratory illness has been spreading among dogs, causing concern among pet owners and veterinarians alike. This illness has been observed to have a high transmission rate, especially in environments such as kennels, boarding facilities, and dog parks. In this blog post, we will explore the nature of this illness and discuss why it is crucial to keep our furry friends away from these places.
This particular respiratory illness has yet to be given a name, and the veterinary sciences world is still in the process of determining what it is, the causes, and how to treat it if your dog comes down with it, but there are signs that you can watch for. It typically presents with symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and fever. This illness is contagious and can spread rapidly through close contact with infected dogs or contaminated surfaces.
Kennels, boarding facilities, and dog parks are environments where dogs come into close proximity to one another, increasing the risk of transmission. The nature of these places, with multiple dogs sharing the same space, can facilitate the spread of the illness. Additionally, the stress of being in a new environment or in the presence of unfamiliar dogs can weaken a dog's immune system, making them more susceptible to infections.
DogDude™️ is an excellent solution to the potential risks associated with kennels, boarding facilities, and dog parks. The DogDude™️ team can help pet parents feel secure knowing that their furry friends are in the comfort of their own home and away from unfamiliar dogs. We provide personalized care and attention to your dog, even in your absence, and eliminate the stress that comes with being in a new environment, making your dog less susceptible to infections. With DogDude™️, you can ensure that your dog gets the care and attention they deserve while maintaining their health and safety.
Preventing the spread of this respiratory illness requires responsible pet ownership and awareness. Here are a few reasons why it is crucial to keep dogs out of kennels, boarding facilities, and dog parks during an outbreak:
The Problems
Minimize Exposure: By keeping our dogs away from these environments, we can reduce their exposure to infected individuals and contaminated surfaces, lowering the risk of contracting the illness.
Protect Vulnerable Dogs: Some dogs, such as puppies, older dogs, or those with weakened immune systems, are more susceptible to severe complications from any disease or illness. By avoiding kennels, boarding facilities, and dog parks, we can help protect these vulnerable individuals.
Prevent Further Spread: Dogs infected with any type of contagious illness can continue to shed the bacteria and viruses even after recovery. Keeping them away from communal spaces reduces the risk of spreading the illness to other dogs.
Strengthen the Immune System: By minimizing stress and ensuring a healthy lifestyle, we can boost our dogs' immune systems, making them more resistant to infections, including this unnamed respiratory illness.
The Solutions
Drop-In Care: Your dogs will get walked each morning for about 25 minutes (minimum, but usually longer). At lunchtime, we’ll engage their minds with “Brain Games” (fun game-based activities always with an emphasis on obedience skills) and “couch time” (affection if and how the dog wants it), and as long as it’s not too hot, we’ll walk them again in the evening. All of these activities are designed to be fully engaged with your dogs and vice versa. We make our time count so that when your dogs see us walk through the door, they know something great for them is about to happen. By doing this, your dogs will go into a “standby state” when we leave and until we walk through the door again. (Click here for more information on our drop-in care)
Dog Walking: One-on-one walks that allow your dog to get the exercise needed to keep up their immune system and keep them from going stir-crazy. (Click here for more information on our dog walking services)
Training: At DogDude™️ we offer a Jump Start Puppy Program and a Good Dog Program. Both programs are with our trainer, Shane, and will not only allow your dog to get much-needed exercise while staying safe but also give them an amazing foundation to become a superstar in your household.
While it may be challenging to keep our dogs away from social environments, especially if they enjoy the company of other dogs, it is vital to prioritize their health and well-being. Instead, consider alternative activities such as one-on-one playdates, training sessions, or walks in less crowded areas. Engaging in these alternative activities can still provide mental and physical stimulation for our dogs while minimizing the risk of exposure to respiratory illness.
Remember, early detection and prompt veterinary care are crucial if you suspect your dog may have contracted any illness, including the one that is currently making the rounds. Seek guidance from your veterinarian on prevention measures, vaccination protocols, and any concerns you may have. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your dog's specific needs.
If you are looking to establish at a vet practice and are local to our service area, our recommendation is Revel Vet in Queen Creek. Revel Vet provides an animal-loving, lifestyle-focused clinic to bring back that hometown feel to veterinary medicine. As a Fear Free Certified Vet Practice, their goal is to prevent and alleviate the stress that a lot of pets feel when at the vet. All of their veterinarians are Fear Free Certified practitioners who are specially trained in methods that help ease a pet's anxiety.
If you opt to take your dog to the vet in person, there are ways to do it safely if you can’t avoid a trip. With small dogs, you can keep them in your lap while waiting to be seen or ask that you be allowed to wait outside for your appointment and have a staff member let you know when it’s time to come in. For larger dogs asking to wait outside is often a good solution if you can’t comfortably have them wait seated in your lap. Most of the time, illnesses are contracted when healthy dogs come into contact with surfaces that still have germs on them that have been released or shed by an ill dog. Taking these simple precautions can help you combat the current respiratory illness as well as other contagious germs.
Viruses can live up to 24 hours on soft surfaces and up to 48 hours on hard surfaces. Some exposed dogs will be subclinical carriers - meaning some dogs will contract and spread the virus without showing symptoms. Dogs show clinical signs within 24-48 hours and can shed the virus for up to 28 days from exposure.
If you aren’t local or need/prefer a virtual practice, check out Vetster. You can receive 10% off your first appointment with Vetster.Use the promo code DOGDUDE10.
Together, we can protect our beloved furry companions and help curb the spread of this mysterious respiratory illness. By taking proactive measures and staying informed, we can create a safer environment for our dogs and ensure their long-term health and well-being.
If you would like to chat with us about any of our services, you can reach us in a number of ways. All our coordinates can be found by clicking here.
Comments