Source: CPR News
In Colorado, a surge in respiratory illnesses among dogs peaked in December 2023 but has since declined, according to Veterinary researchers at Colorado State University (CSU). Veterinarians noticed more dogs with symptoms resembling kennel cough, including persistent coughs lasting weeks to months and occasionally progressing to severe pneumonia with limited response to treatment.
CSU researchers attribute the decrease in cases since January to factors such as reduced social interactions among dogs during winter. The cause of the fall spike remains uncertain, with testing complicated by the need for timely PCR testing within 72 hours of symptom onset. CSU planned to release a study in February investigating the origins of the illnesses, examining samples from multiple Colorado cities for known pathogens causing canine respiratory diseases and assessing potential changes or new causes. Dr. Michael Lappin of CSU suggests strategies to keep dogs healthy amid the ongoing concerns.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.cpr.org/2024/02/05/colorado-canine-respiratory-illnesses-dropped-since-fall/