If there’s one truth in this world, it’s this: dogs are wonderful. Dogs are always happy to see you, enjoy going on adventures with you, and are content just sitting next to you if you need a companion. That’s why it’s very nerve-wracking that so many of them are getting sick with a contagious disease that, oddly enough, seems to be cropping up in one location — Virginia.
Veterinarians are baffled by the speed in which thousands of Virginia-based pups are catching the disease, and are warning dog owners to keep their pets inside when possible. The illness affects the respiratory system, and is very contagious. In fact, the Charlottesville’s Autumn Trails Veterinary Center posted a warning on their Facebook page. As per their records, more than 150 dogs have come in with symptoms over the last few months, and thousands of similar cases were popping up at other clinics in the area. Scary.
“We reached out to other local vets and have determined there is an epidemic under way in the Charlottesville area,” they added. “The symptoms present as mild to severe coughing and sneezing, with low grade fevers and lethargy.” Their advice is to try hard to avoid dog-friendly locations like the groomers and pet stores, even though as dog owners know, that can be quite difficult.
[image_with_caption text=”Autumn Trails Veterinary Center/Facebook” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dog.png”]
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The epidemic is so serious that they want dog owners who think their pup may have caught it to warn the staff ahead of time. “If you must bring your loved one in for medical treatment, please advise the staff if your pet is exhibiting symptoms before entering the building,” they wrote.
Now, the good news. While the symptoms are unpleasant, the illness doesn’t seem to be deadly. It’s more similar to a cold. Still, it’s tough explaining that to a dog in misery.
Even if you don’t live in Virginia, it’s still good to make sure your dog is safe. Try not to put your dog in a situation where he or she is exposed to other pups for a long period of time, and make sure to keep an eye out for symptoms.