Canine respiratory illness, or CRI, is a recent development in the realm of veterinary care. This illness resembles other respiratory infections, such as kennel cough or bronchitis. However, CRI does not respond to standard treatments and often spirals into pneumonia making it potentially life-threatening without early intervention.
To safeguard your four-legged family member and defend against canine respiratory illness, we’re here to serve as your trusted guide in understanding the illness, symptoms, and preventative measures.
What Is Canine Respiratory Illness?
Canine respiratory illness is a mysterious respiratory condition that solely affects dogs. It begins as a flu-like condition, with symptoms including nasal and eye discharge, sneezing, coughing, and wheezing, and quickly escalates to more severe symptoms, such as fever, lethargy, respiratory failure, and pneumonia. While there is no set cure, we do know that this illness comes on rapidly and requires immediate veterinary intervention to mitigate potentially fatal outcomes.
Who Does Canine Respiratory Illness Effect?
Canine respiratory illness is not limited to one type of breed or age-group. Research suggests flat-faced breeds, including French bulldogs, American bulldogs, and pugs are more susceptible to the illness, as well as senior dogs and dogs with pre-existing medical conditions. However, there have been a number of cases impacting young, healthy dogs, making it a universal concern for pet owners.
How Do I Protect My Dog From Canine Respiratory Illness?
Canine respiratory illness is contracted when a dog breathes the same air or comes into contact with a dog carrying CRI. As such, your first line of defense is keeping your dog away from other dogs until this illness dies down. We recommend avoiding doggy daycares, the dog park, and boarding facilities when possible. In addition, it’s vital to ensure your pet is fully vaccinated.
Contact your trusted veterinarian today to schedule your dog’s vaccinations or to learn more about canine respiratory illness.
