Veterinary laboratories in several states, including Oregon, Colorado, and New Hampshire, are currently investigating an unusual respiratory illness affecting dogs. The illness, which leads to lasting respiratory disease and pneumonia that does not respond to antibiotics, has prompted veterinarians to urge pet owners to take precautionary measures to keep their furry friends healthy.

Symptoms of the respiratory illness in dogs include coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, and lethargy. In some cases, the pneumonia progresses rapidly, making dogs severely ill within just 24 to 36 hours. The Oregon Department of Agriculture has reported over 200 cases of the disease since mid-August, prompting them to encourage pet owners to contact their veterinarians if their dogs exhibit any signs of illness.

The exact cause of the illness remains unknown, but the Oregon Department of Agriculture is diligently working with state researchers and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratory to identify the source of the illness. Kurt Williams, the director of the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University, emphasized that while some dogs have sadly succumbed to the disease, the lack of a clear definition and testing method hinders accurate data regarding the number of fatalities from the severe form of the infection.

In light of the ongoing investigation, Williams assured dog owners not to panic. He advised ensuring that pets are up to date on their vaccinations, including those guarding against various respiratory illnesses. Veterinary laboratories across the country are collaborating and sharing their findings in an effort to pinpoint the culprit behind this mysterious illness.

David Needle, senior veterinary pathologist at the University of New Hampshire's New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, has been studying the disease for almost a year. His team has examined samples from dogs in Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts, with more samples forthcoming from Oregon, Colorado, and potentially other states. While there has not been a significant increase in the number of dogs dying from the illness, Needle still encourages pet owners to limit their dogs' contact with other animals.

As the investigation continues, veterinarians and researchers are dedicated to uncovering the cause of this respiratory illness in dogs, in hopes of finding effective treatments and preventive measures to safeguard canine health. Pet owners are advised to stay updated on any new information and consult their veterinarians if their pets show any signs of illness.

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