Navigating the Canine Respiratory Disease

With the rise of a mysterious Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD) in the US, it’s important to both be aware of the risks and how to prevent and treat our dogs, to maximize their longevity.

Author

Thom Hart
December 05, 2023

Daily Longevity Tip: Navigating the Canine Respiratory Disease

Tip Summary: With CIRD circulating in the US, monitor your dog for symptoms and treat them quickly to maximize their longevity.

Hey Dog Longevity friends! With the rise of a mysterious Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD) in the US, it’s important to both be aware of the risks, and how to prevent and treat our dogs, to maximize their longevity. Unfortunately, like any disease, it can have a long-term effect on lifespan, so we want to either avoid the possibility entirely, or treat it as quickly as possible. Let’s cover the illness, prevention and protection, treatment options, and takeaways:

About the Illness:

  • Reports of CIRD are increasing across the US, with the causative pathogen still unidentified.

  • Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, discharge, fever, anorexia, and lethargy.

Prevention and Protection:

  • Keep up with essential vaccinations.

  • Avoid contact with unfamiliar dogs where possible (think dog parks, dog day care, etc.).

  • Implement standard isolation and quarantine procedures if needed.

  • If symptoms appear, early PCR testing is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Treatment Options:

  • Mild Cases: May resolve without specific treatment, though cough suppressants can provide comfort.

  • Severe Cases: Hospitalization might be necessary for nebulization, IV antibiotics, oxygen therapy, rehydration, and possibly ventilatory support.

Takeaways for Dog Parents:

  • Stay vigilant and monitor your dog for any symptoms.

  • Seek early veterinary care for testing and appropriate treatment.

  • Maintain hygiene and vaccination protocols to safeguard your dog’s health.

Prompt treatment and preventive measures are crucial for preserving the longevity and well-being of our pups during this outbreak.

Announcement: We’ll be doing a (free) weekly Facebook Live longevity discussion + Q&A with Dr. Helen Stortz, DVM, on Friday, 8 December at 8PM EST. This will be held in the Dog Longevity Facebook community. The link to join the community is below:

Could you help spread the word? If you’re enjoying this newsletter, I’d greatly appreciate you passing it along to other dog parents, using the link below.