The B.C. SPCA is investigating a viral outbreak and is advising dog owners to immediately isolate their dogs if it experiences coughing, according to an Aug. 5, 2021 press release.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/B.C. SPCA
August 05, 2021 - 11:01 AM
The B.C. SPCA is warning dog owners, particularly those in Kamloops, to be vigilant as 24 cases of kennel cough have come through their facilities since July.
The "unusual" strain of kennel cough is concerning due to its aggressive spread between dogs, even those that have not been in close contact, according to a news release from B.C. SPCA.
“Any dogs in our care who were showing symptoms were immediately isolated, but as we began testing for known viruses and bacteria, the tests kept coming back negative. After consulting with specialists, we believe the cause could be a virus that isn’t detected by commercially available tests," Dr. Emilia Gordon, B.C. SPCA senior manager of animal health, said in the release.
Most of the cases of the unknown virus strain have been found in the Kamloops region, according to B.C. SPCA.
Twenty-four cases have been at B.C. SPCA facilities, but there are more cases at other facilities throughout the area.
Along with coughing, some of the infected dogs had discharge from the eye or nose.
None of the dogs treated at their facilities have become seriously ill and all are recovering, but the B.C. SPCA is urging dog owners to isolate their pet if they begin coughing and seek veterinary advice.
“Most affected dogs were vaccinated, so while we still recommend the vaccine to reduce illness, it appears that we may be dealing with a virus that is not part of the current vaccine," Dr. Gordon said.
The B.C. SPCA has collected samples and they are investigating the cause of the outbreak, with the help of specialists and diagnostic laboratories.
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