A mysterious disease variant is swiftly spreading among dogs in the United States. Reports indicate that the fatal bug has already made its way to the United Kingdom. This new Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD) variant is baffling veterinarians as its atypical nature defies conventional understanding.
CIRD variant symptoms vets urge dog owners to watch out for
British citizens are receiving cautionary advisories regarding the canine disease, as The Sun reports. It initially surfaced across four areas in the United States: New Hampshire, Oregon, Los Angeles, and Colorado.
This illness presents as an unconventional iteration of Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD), commonly recognized as ‘kennel cough’ within the U.K. In addition, it accounts for one out of every 100 veterinary visits, emphasizing its significant impact on canine health.
CIRD is one of the most widespread respiratory illnesses affecting dogs in the UK. The newly identified disease is a variant of CIRD, raising concerns about its potential to become prevalent in Britain.
The disease can swiftly spread among dogs as they socialize. Therefore, this makes any activity involving multiple dogs in close proximity a potential risk factor.
Moreover, the symptoms of this concerning illness include sneezing, nasal discharge, and fatigue. Upon first observation, it can seem like kennel cough. However, if it is not diagnosed and treated in time, it can escalate to pneumonia.
Since the disease can manifest within just one to two days, vets advise dog parents to implement all possible precautions. Additionally, the disease also comes with the possibility of death. Reported cases in dogs are as young as nine months and as old as 11 years.
According to Dr. Lindsey Ganzer, a vet, there are other signs and symptoms of this CIRD variant. They include a wet cough, loss of appetite, lethargy, and abnormal eye discharge.
Hence, if you notice any of these symptoms in your pup, you must immediately book a consultation with your vet.
