November 24, 2023
Dear members,
You may have heard news reports about a potentially fatal respiratory illness in dogs that has been reported in several states across the country. We have no information about any such
illnesses being reported in the NYC area yet, but, according to news reports, including this one from Today, vets are concerned that the illness may be spreading.
One of our local veterinarians, Dr. Sara LoPresti of Battery Park Vets, reached out to us
and has the following information to share. Dr. LoPresti reports:
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We know that the news has been covering a mysterious respiratory illness in dogs on the west coast. We wanted to give you the most updated information we have to share. This disease seems to be isolated to the west coast of the United States at this time and despite a number of diagnostic labs testing samples that have been received, they have been unable to determine the cause. The disease can be very severe in certain affected dogs and the thought is that it is either an undetectable bateria or an unknown virus. At this time the best recommendation we can offer is to not bring dogs to the West Coast unless absolutely necessary. If you do have to be on the West Coast we would recommend staying away from dog parks or any other groups of dogs to try and prevent exposure. With the holiday season upon us and travel likely, be careful about socializing your dogs with any other pets that could be carrying the infection. If you do see any respiratory symptoms (coughing, wheezing, congestion) then I would recommend seeing your veterinarian.
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We hope you find this information to be helpful.
If you notice your dog coughing, you should contact your vet right away.
If you are aware of any instances of this new illness occurring in the the NYC area, please let us know, by emailing us.
Let's keep our pets safe!