An unidentifiable respiratory illness is spreading amongst dogs nationwide. It leaves pets feeling lethargic and causes other respiratory symptoms including coughing, sneezing and eye and nose discharge (file photo)

An unidentifiable respiratory illness is spreading amongst dogs nationwide. It leaves pets feeling lethargic and causes other respiratory symptoms including coughing, sneezing and eye and nose discharge.

According to veterinarian Athena Gaffud with Veterinarians.org, the disease could be any number of respiratory infections.

“Upper respiratory infections in dogs could be a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. Depending on the part that is infected, it is usually referred to as laryngotracheitis, infectious tracheobronchitis (ITB), Kennel Cough, or Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC),” Gaffud said.

According to vets around New Iberia, they haven’t yet encountered the mysterious new illness. Dr. Agnes Clay Anderson from Spanish Trail Animal Hospital recommends, however, to fully vaccinate your dog against respiratory infections including canine influenza and Kennel Cough. To further limit the possibility of a local outbreak, she also recommends limited travel and coming into contact with unvaccinated animals. At the first signs of possible symptoms, immediately reach out to your veterinarian.

Gaffud also recommends limiting interaction between dogs in most “common areas” such as parks and doggie daycare, but if they must be exposed to these areas, to ensure they are vaccinated. She also stressed the importance of providing your dog with a nutritious diet.

“Keeping their immune system strong with proper nutrition and supplements would also help to ward off infections,” If there is a reported flu epidemic or other diseases in your area, it is advisable to keep your dogs indoors to prevent possible infection.”

Another key to preventing illness among pets, according to Gaffud, is keeping your dog warm, especially during the winter and when traveling to colder environments. She recommends following the saying, “what’s cold for you is more likely cold for your dog as well.”

”Cases of upper respiratory infection in dogs increase in cold weather. Make sure your dogs are dried and kept warm after a run or walk. Keep them indoors if possible and outdoor dog houses should be well insulated. The change in weather could be stressful to dogs as their bodies need to adjust to the varying environmental temperatures. Stress could lower their immune system and make them vulnerable to diseases,” Gaffud said.

Iberia Animal Shelter Director Erica Capak said they haven’t encountered the disease physically in the shelter, but have received warning from veterinarians and instructions on what symptoms to look out for. She also recommended to avoid boarding your dogs and avoid traveling with pets to regions where the disease has been more prevalent.