How to Protect Your Pup From a Deadly Mystery Illness
Veterinary labs in several states, including New Hampshire and Rhode
Island, are investigating a mysterious respiratory illness that can be fatal in
dogs.
Dog owners are being urged to take simple precautionary steps (below) to
keep their pets healthy and avoid what might be making these animals sick.
Veterinarians are finding that once dogs contract the illness, which can
cause lasting respiratory illness and pneumonia, they don't always respond
to treatments. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye
discharge, or lethargy.
It is not known what causes the illness, or how to test for it. However,
veterinarians are asking dog owners not to panic. Here are a few simple
ways to ensure your dog's good health:
Decrease contact with other dogs;
Keep up to date on dog vaccinations; and
Make an appointment with your veterinary clinic if your dog shows
signs of respiratory illness.
With the upcoming holidays, it is also critical to make sure you pets do not
ingest any toxic materials. A comprehensive list of poisonous materials is