ST. LOUIS — A new respiratory illness for dogs is spreading across the country, posing a threat to pets. Animal experts are advising owners on when to be alarmed.
"We see a lot of dogs and we have not seen an uptick in respiratory illness which is good," Dr. Stu Robson said.
So far so good at Fox Creek Veterinary Hospital in Kirkwood and these canines are ready for Christmas as a daunting illness in their community lurks across the country
"At this point, it's a little bit of an enigma we don't necessarily know what's causing it. We have a lot of bright minds that are working at that right now to try to figure out what's at the root of it." Robson said.
There have been multiple cases reported across the country, including in Illinois.
Robson and his colleagues are glad to know at least what the sickness can do.
"If your pet is coughing, if it has a fever, it's not eating, those are things that you definitely want to go in and see your vet. The worry is if this develops into pneumonia," Robson said.
Robson said the research is just underway.
"There's other possibilities that could be causing it as well. There's environmental things. There's all kinds of things that can cause respiratory illness," he said.
Health experts are prepared to document cases.
"Veterinary school, state labs, we have all kinds of resources but your local veterinarian is that first line," he said.
The holidays are in full effect, and Christmas is right around the corner and people are wondering, 'Can I board or travel with my pet?'
"I personally would not cancel any of my plans to travel or board my pet," he said. "There are great boarding facilities in St. Louis that take every precaution to protect your pet."
As your dog dashes through the season, remember to stay vigilant.
"Number one. get your pets vaccinated and just protect them for the things that you can protect them for right now. Number two, if your dog does have symptoms, just call your vet," he said.