NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association said on Dec. 8 that an unidentified respiratory illness affecting dogs across the U.S. was found in "various locations" of Tennessee.
In the release, the association said the disease is still not named after it was first detected in New Hampshire in 2022. Since then, the disease has been found in several states across the U.S. — including Tennessee, according to the TVMA.
The association said it appears to be viral in nature, but the specific cause is not known. Symptoms follow specific patterns: inflamed throats ranging from chronic to moderate lasting up to eight weeks that are unresponsive to antibiotics, followed by pneumonia that doesn't respond to antibiotics which could further develop to be fatal.
There is no evidence that the disease can spread to cats or dogs.
“It is important to remember that in the vast majority of cases involving this illness, dogs are making full recoveries,” said Dr. Forrest Reynolds in a press release, TVMA President. “However, because we have not identified the disease specifically, and because it appears to be viral in nature, it is important that veterinarians and pet owners know what to look for and how to address the situation should it arise.”
The disease is resistant to treatments for typical Canine Infection Respiratory Disease Complex but mimics its symptoms, the TVMA said. They can also include coughing, difficulty breathing, sneezing, eye discharge, nasal discharge and lethargy.
Reynolds said canines that are elderly, very young, immunocompromised, pregnant or that have pre-existing cardiac or respiratory problems are at a higher risk for complications from the disease. Breeds that generally have trouble breathing, such as pugs or English bulldogs, are also at an increased risk.
The TVMA said pet owners should limit contact with unknown dogs to prevent the disease from spreading and avoid sharing water or food bowls with unknown dogs. Dogs that show persistent CIRDC symptoms should also be taken to the vet.
Information about the specific locations where the disease was found was not immediately available.