Canine Respiratory Disease Affects Holiday Plans for Pet Owners in Western Washington
As the holiday season approaches, pet owners in western Washington are facing a dilemma: how to care for their pets while they travel. A new respiratory disease affecting dogs has spread across the country and reached western Washington, causing concern and impacting businesses that cater to pets. The Washington State Department of Agriculture has reported cases of this disease, known as Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), and is advising pet owners to take precautions to protect their pets.
What is the Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex?
The recently emerged Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) is a respiratory disease that is highly contagious among dogs. It presents symptoms such as lethargy, coughing, and nasal and eye discharge. In serious cases, it can lead to pneumonia. The disease is commonly known as kennel cough, but a new atypical form of the disease has emerged and is causing concern among pet owners.
The atypical CIRDC first appeared in August 2023 and has since spread to several states, including Oregon and Idaho. It has now reached western Washington, with at least 16 reported cases in the state. Two of these cases have been confirmed, one in Snohomish County and one in Clark County. The majority of reported cases have been in King County, followed by Spokane, Island, and Pierce counties.
While there have been no reports of the disease spreading to humans, pet owners are advised to take precautions to prevent its transmission among dogs.
Impact on Pet Care Businesses
The spread of the atypical CIRDC has caused concern among pet owners and resulted in a decline in business for pet care facilities. Jose Rodriguez, the owner of the Seattle Canine Club, has seen a significant decrease in bookings for daycare since Thanksgiving. Clients are hesitant to expose their dogs to public settings, dog parks, and boarding facilities. This decline in business is impacting the livelihood of pet care businesses in the region.
However, Rodriguez emphasizes the importance of socialization for dogs and urges pet owners not to withhold their dogs from activities that bring them joy. He advises pet owners to monitor their dogs' health, follow proper vaccination protocols, and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.
Precautions for Pet Owners
To protect their pets, the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) recommends the following precautions:
1. Fully vaccinate your pets for all canine respiratory diseases.
2. Avoid group settings for dogs where the disease can easily spread.
3. Keep your pets away from sick dogs and monitor their health closely.
4. Wash your hands regularly, especially if you have been exposed to sick dogs or boarding facilities.
5. Contact your veterinarian if your dog shows symptoms of the disease.
By taking these precautions, pet owners can help prevent the spread of the Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex and ensure the health and well-being of their beloved pets.
