Unidentified Respiratory Illness of Dogs
Consistent with what is happening across the country, veterinarians throughout Indiana have reported an unusual respiratory illness in dogs. The source of the illness has not been definitively identified, earning the reference to “mysterious respiratory illness in dogs” in the popular press.
The Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) has been tracking reports received from Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Evansville. Because reporting is voluntary, BOAH does not have a way to determine an exact number of cases or distribution within the state.
Recent and upcoming holiday travel and boarding may generate a spike in cases in the coming weeks and through the end of the year.
Clinical Signs
Similar to what is being observed in other states, most cases reported to BOAH appear to be clinically indistinguishable from canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD), or “kennel cough,” and often start with a dry, hacking cough. Recently we have received reports that some of these cases have failed to respond to symptomatic therapy, having a cough that lingers beyond the normal period of 7 to 14 days. A small percentage have been reported to progress despite appropriate therapy, showing clinical signs of systemic illness. Affected dogs may begin to show signs of lethargy, fever, decreased appetite, productive cough, nasal and/or ocular discharge, respiratory distress, or pneumonia.
BOAH has had one reported case where the affected dog died as a result of this disease progression.
Case reports show all breeds and sizes of dogs may be affected. Some dogs have underlying issues which make them more susceptible to the negative effects of the illness. Not surprisingly, brachycephalic breeds seem to be over-represented among reports of severe cases.
In addition to unvaccinated dogs, this novel outbreak appears to be affecting dogs that have been vaccinated for CIRD and canine influenza. Veterinarians may consider more aggressive therapy for dogs currently presenting with respiratory signs relative to more traditional treatment plans for CIRD.
Identifying the Source of Illness
At this time, a causative agent has not been identified, despite many veterinarians submitting appropriate diagnostic tests. BOAH has been communicating with the Indiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (ADDL) at Purdue University as well as several of the commercial labs serving Indiana; however, no consistent results for a potential causative agent are identified. ADDL has identified Mycoplasma sp. in a small number of samples, but the role this pathogen plays in the current respiratory illness is unclear.
At this point, laboratory tests, such as respiratory PCR panels, have value in eliminating other diagnoses. A necropsy submission for a recent case could have the most value for thorough testing to identify the causative agent; however, that does not come without cost.
Consider radiographs early in the course of the illness as a means to monitor disease progression.
Reporting
Reporting cases to BOAH is voluntary. The agency encourages reports when cases meet the following definitions:
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CHRONIC CASES:
- The dog was seen for the complaint of a persistent cough and/or pneumonia one or more times AFTER starting appropriate antibiotic therapy. AND
- Clinical signs persist longer than 14 days. AND
- The cause must not be found to be anything other than unknown or infectious (cancer, allergic aspiration, pulmonary hypertension, etc.).
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ACUTE CASES: The dog was seen for pneumonia, quickly decompensated and the patient either died or was euthanized within 24-48 hours.
Veterinary professionals may submit information to BOAH via the Animal Health Reporting System online form.
Questions may be directed to Dr. Melissa Justice, Director of Small Animal Programs, at mjustice@boah.in.gov or 317-439-4888 or Dr. Isaac Traynor, Epidemiologist, at itraynor@boah.in.gov.
Prevention and Cautionary Measures for Clinics
BOAH is working with Indiana veterinarians on a case-by-case basis to offer suggestions for diagnostic decision-making, case management, and disease prevention.
Clinics, kennels, grooming facilities, and other sites where dogs congregate can reduce opportunities for spread of this illness (and others) by practicing good biosecurity:
- Clean and disinfect areas frequently where dogs have contact, including kennels, tables, visitor seating areas, water and food bowls, equipment, and bedding.
- Clean thoroughly by scrubbing or wiping down surfaces (not just spray disinfectant).
- After cleaning, use an animal-safe disinfectant appropriate for surfaces. Be sure to follow the label to meet contact-time requirements.
- Isolate cases in the hospital setting. Consider seeing patients in their automobile or dedicate an exam room for these cases.
Guidance for Clients
Widespread media reports have been generating worried inquiries from dog owners. BOAH advises caution, not worry. Veterinarians can advise clients to help them be diligent in caring for their pets:
- Be vigilant in monitoring their dogs for signs of illness after boarding, holiday travel, or other activities where pets may have commingled with others. If a dog develops a cough or lethargy, a veterinary visit should be recommended.
- Make sure all dogs are up-to-date on all of their recommended vaccines including distemper combination (distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza and parvo), Bordetella, and canine influenza.
- Reduce contact with large numbers of unknown dogs when possible. Just like with other respiratory diseases, dogs that are co-mingled may be at greater risk for developing the illness.
- When possible, reduce contact with animals.
- Keep sick dogs at home whenever possible (unless taking them to the veterinarian for examination or treatment). Social settings carry inherent risks of disease spread.
- Avoid communal water bowls shared by multiple dogs.
- Remind clients who own brachycephalic breeds that those dogs seem more susceptible to the negative effects of this illness.
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Sent to you by:
Denise Derrer Spears
Public Information Director
Indiana State Board of Animal Health
Phone: 317-544-2414
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