Mysterious Canine Respiratory Illness Cases Reported In PA

PENNSYLVANIA — Dogs in Pennsylvania are showing symptoms of a mysterious and potentially fatal respiratory illness that has sickened canines in more than a dozen states, officials said.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture confirmed Thursday that there have been recent reports in the state of the "atypical respiratory illness," and that veterinarians statewide have been alerted. Owners are being advised to limit their dog's exposure to canines from other households, and to check with dog groomers and boarding kennels this holiday season to make sure they haven't had any sick clients recently.

Shannon Powers, spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, said the state does not have a count of how many dogs have been reported ill, because much of the testing is done in private veterinary labs. It is also unclear where in Pennsylvania these cases have been reported.

"The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is monitoring this situation, but the best source of information for your pet remains your trusted veterinarian," Powers said.

The mystery ailment, which has killed some dogs, starts with a cough that can last for several weeks and may not respond to antibiotics or other treatments. Affected dogs may also struggle to breathe and develop severe pneumonia.

Dogs with the illness "may show signs of lethargy, coughing, sneezing, and eye and nasal discharge," Powers added in a statement.

The canine respiratory illness perplexed experts nationwide; veterinarians have not yet identified a cause or source and are still working to find effective treatments. Cases have also been reported in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Oregon and Washington, NBC’s “Today” show reported last week.

"Some states have reported dogs staying ill for long periods, not responding to treatment, and rarely, dogs with rapid onset of severe respiratory signs that have progressed to death," Powers said.

Dog owners are advised to "closely monitor" their canine's health, and contact their veterinarian if any symptoms arise. Also, the Department of Agriculture recommends not exposing your dog to unknown dogs, "especially in areas where a large number of dogs from different households gather." This also means avoiding public drinking bowls and water fountains designed for dogs.

And, officials remind pet owners to avoid exposing their pets to other dogs who are ill, and to check with the staff at any grooming and boarding services to see if they have any sick dogs recently. Pet owners are also advised to make sure their dog is up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations.