Mystery Canine Respiratory Infection Update

Regis Regal, top AKC German Shepherd breeders, have been monitoring the concerning “Mystery Canine Respiratory Infection”. This infection has been causing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing in dogs. It has been spreading rapidly among the canine population, leading to growing concerns among dog owners and breeders. The exact origin and transmission of this infection are still unknown, making it challenging for experts to develop effective treatments and preventive measures. However, researchers are working diligently to study the virus and find ways to control its spread.

What is this Mystery Canine Infection & Symptoms? 

While veterinary professionals are still currently investigating this mystery illness, they are calling the pathogen a “funky bacterium”. Owners should monitor signs of a persistent cough while symptoms could include coughing, fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, labored breathing, and discharge from the eyes or nose. If not treated, it can worsen quickly and progress to severe pneumonia. 

What to do if You Suspect Your Dog Has this Illness? 

If you notice a persistent cough, it is best to go see your primary veterinarian to get your dog evaluated. Your veterinarian can work on a course of treatment or refer more severe cases to an emergency veterinarian. Currently there is no clear treatment or vaccines available. Since veterinary teams see patients who are contagious and those who are immunocompromised, they take extra precautions with our patients to avoid the risk of exposure. With this illness circulating, it is more important than ever for dogs to be up-to-date on their vaccines and wellness exams.

Precautions that Dog Owners Should Take at this Time

• The illness is very contagious so the best way to protect your dog is to avoid highly populated areas with exposure to other dogs. 
• Limit visits to boarding facilities, doggy day care, dog parks, grooming business, and training establishments. 
• Do not expose your dog to chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems. 
• Stay up to date with vaccinations. 
• If traveling, try to enlist the help of a trusted sitter or boarding facility that maintains pristine cleaning procedures. 

Regis Regal, world-class West German Shepherd breeders, has over thirty years of experience breeding, raising, training, and boarding German Shepherd dogs. Our top priority is the health and safety of our dogs. If you have any questions about our puppies, service dogs, or our boarding facility in Spring Grove, Illinois, please feel free to reach out at regisregal@gmail.com.