You may have been hearing across social media that there is a new mystery disease affecting dogs, and my think that it's reached outbreak proportions. I think it's important to discuss this on Q&A with Dr. Q.
Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex, or CIRDC for short, has become a hot topic of discussion, with many wondering about its origins and implications. Pet owners are reporting symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, runny eyes, lethargy, fever, and a diminished appetite.
Dr. Scott Wiese, an infectious disease specialist from Ontario, established the term CIRDC for this emerging disease. His expertise, especially during the early days of the COVID pandemic, brings a unique perspective. Dr. Wiese emphasizes that while the symptoms might resemble the common kennel cough, that may be an oversimplification. The "respiratory disease complex" indicates a condition involving various organisms. It can include different viruses such as canine parainfluenza and coronavirus, as well as bacteria like Bordetella and Mycoplasma. Veterinary professionals have expressed concern about how the complex causes prolonged bouts of coughing, increased lethargy, and unfortunately, cases of pets succumbing to the illness.
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your pet, consult your veterinarian and request testing as soon as possible. They will take swabs from the nose or throat in order to identify the different pathogens. Treatment varies based on the pet's condition, ranging from antibiotics to hospitalization with intravenous therapy. Because this condition can be highly contagious, infected animals need to be isolated to prevent further spread.
Prevention plays a vital role. Whether your furry friend is headed for grooming, boarding, or a playdate at the dog park, always make sure their vaccinations are up to date. Keeping your pet's health and nutrition levels high, and their stress levels low, are great ways to keep illness in check!