Dog Owners Urged To Protect Pets From Contagious Disease Spreading In South Florida

Authorities have informed dog owners about a highly contagious disease that has been affecting dogs in South Florida.

There has been a recent increase in cases of Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) across South Florida, prompting the Miami-Dade Animal Services (MDAS) to issue a community alert for pet owners, reported NBC Miami.

CIRDC is a "very common" and highly contagious disease that can be caused by viral or bacterial organisms, Ohio State University (OSU) noted. It can cause symptoms such as coughing, sneezing and discharges from the eyes or nose. Although the symptoms are usually mild, they can also be progressive and "rapidly worsen" or also cause more serious illnesses in some dogs.

"The cough and the sneezing may become something a little more serious, like lethargy and not eating, and just not feeling good," MDAS veterinarian Dr. Maria Serrano said. "In that case, you need to visit your veterinarian immediately."

Infection can be spread rapidly from one dog to another through direct contacts, such as when they inhale cough or sneeze droplets, or if they lick objects that are contaminated with the bacteria or virus. Dogs in close proximity are the ones most at risk of contracting it. This includes dogs in doggie daycares, dog parks or events, groomers and boarding kennels.

Given the uptick in cases in Miami, the MDAS has temporarily suspended certain dog services including microchipping, spay/neutering, vaccinations, owner surrender and off-site pet adoption events.

One of the ways to protect dogs is to stay informed about the disease, noted OSU. Being aware of outbreaks or infections in their respective areas will help pet owners to avoid certain situations that may increase their pets' risks. If one's area has reported cases of CIRDC, for instance, it would be best to avoid going to dog parks or doggie daycares.

"Stay away from places that have dogs conglomerating. So dog parks, groomers, just anywhere where there’s a lot of dogs together. Also, avoid nose-to-nose contact between dogs," Dr. Serrano said, according to CBS Miami.

Keeping dogs up to date with their vaccinations is also important. Vaccinations can help reduce the severity of the illness and even reduce the shedding of the organisms. This is particularly important for "higher risk" dogs, such as the ones that stay in canine group settings.

Those who suspect their dogs are infected with CIRDC should call a veterinarian before going to the clinic, as the illness is very contagious. There are treatments available for CIRDC. According to OSU, the treatment would depend on the severity of the illness. Furthermore, signs of the disease in most dogs are mild and get resolved on their own.