As the Christmas and New Year festivities approach, veterinarians across the United States are cautioning dog owners to be wary of where they take their furry companions. A respiratory illness, affecting dogs in over a dozen states, has been circulating for several months now, with Colorado experiencing a particularly high rate of cases.

Dr. Arun Rustgi, veterinarian and owner of Mountainwood Pet Hospital in Windsor, advises dog owners to be vigilant in protecting their pets. Despite being vaccinated, some dogs have shown symptoms of a persistent cough, leading to concerns about the mysterious illness. The number of dogs exhibiting symptoms peaked during the summer months, with Rustgi's office seeing three to four cases each day.

"This canine respiratory disease complex has been a significant challenge," stated Rustgi. "It escalated dramatically during the middle of summer."

While the number of cases has decreased recently, veterinarians urge dog owners to remain cautious as they engage in socializing and travel during the holiday season. Researchers have found that the illness is predominantly transmitted through the air, similar to how COVID-19 spreads among humans through close breathing contact.

Although most dogs recover in a week or two, some unfortunate cases have resulted in death. Rustgi clarified that none of the dogs he has treated have died so far. The illness can cause prolonged coughs, leading to additional symptoms like sneezing and watery eyes. This poses a significant concern for dog daycare facilities, boarding kennels, and grooming centers.

Rustgi has had some success treating the illness with medications such as ciprofloxacin and prednisone, similar to how humans with COPD or asthma are treated. However, due to the lack of a definitive treatment, he advises avoiding contact with unfamiliar dogs. It is wise to refrain from allowing dogs to greet each other during walks and to regularly clean shared dog toys.

In addition, Rustgi recommends practicing good hygiene when interacting with dogs outside the household. Although the likelihood of transmitting the virus from one dog to another through human touch appears to be low, he emphasizes the importance of taking precautions.

For those traveling during the holidays, Rustgi suggests leaving pets with trusted individuals who do not own other dogs. Alternatively, arranging for a nearby friend or neighbor to check on the dog multiple times a day is a safer option compared to booking them into a kennel.

"If you can find a friend or neighbor who can come over and provide care for your dog, that would be the best approach. The impact of the illness can be severe for those dogs that are hit hard by it," Rustgi emphasized.

Dog owners are urged to prioritize the well-being of their beloved pets and take proactive measures to minimize the risk of this respiratory illness during the holiday season.