Mysterious respiratory illness in dogs reported in Southern New England

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — A mysterious respiratory illness in dogs has now been reported in at least a dozen states, including in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

However, much  remains unknown about the virus, which causes dogs to cough, sneeze, and become lethargic.

Scientists in New Hampshire have not been able to identify any virus, bacteria, or fungus responsible.

Researchers in Colorado, meanwhile, believe it starts with a virus that develops into secondary bacterial pneumonia.

“I went down and saw my vet today, I talked about the illness with my vet,” Boris Kroner of Woonsocket said. “They are still unsure of how it spreads. I don’t know whether it is airborne or not.”

Officials said the disease seems to spread more easily in high volume areas like kennels, doggie daycare facilities, and dog parks.

“I am making sure she is getting the exercise she needs and she is well socialized and gets to run around and interact with other dogs and other people,” Kroner said. “I am concerned, I don’t want my dog to get sick but I also think that it is important to socialize and exercise our animals.”

So far, veterinarians have not found any medication or therapy the disease responds to.

Officials added that many recover in a matter of weeks couple weeks, but it can be deadly in some cases.