Town of Telluride: Veterinarians Warn of Severe Upper Respiratory Infection in Dogs!

20 Dec Town of Telluride: Veterinarians Warn of Severe Upper Respiratory Infection in Dogs!

Veterinarians warn of severe upper respiratory infection affecting dogs.

Avoid highly trafficked areas, watch for symptoms similar to kennel cough.

Go here for more about the Town of Telluride.

The Town of Telluride, Telluride Marshal’s Department and the Animal Hospital of Telluride join Colorado State University (CSU) veterinarians in warning of a severe upper respiratory infection affecting dogs. Multiple cases have been identified in Colorado and one possible case has been seen at The Animal Hospital.

Dr. Amanda Cavanagh, board-certified emergency veterinarian and head of the CSU Small Animal Emergency and Urgent Care services, advised:

“The health and well-being of our canine companions are paramount. We are actively learning about this illness, its causes, transmission, and potential treatment measures to protect our beloved pets.”

CSU has not established exactly how dogs are contracting this infection, however, they suspect it is being spread through nose-to-nose contact with another infected dog or through community water bowls. The infection presents similarly to Bordetella Pertussis, also known as kennel cough. However, infections are more severe and have included some fatalities.

Symptoms to watch for include:

• Coughing
• Eye and nose discharge • Fever
• Lethargy

While the infection is being studied, the incubation period and susceptible breeds, ages, and sizes of dogs are unclear. Some dogs become extremely ill within 24 hours of first symptoms.

“Think of this like we thought of COVID,” said Dr. Steven Smolen of the Animal Hospital of Telluride. “Don’t take your dog to parks, public trails, or other areas where your dog may encounter an infected dog during high traffic times. Most importantly, do not allow your dogs to greet other dogs or to drink from community dog bowls.”

Smolen and veterinarians across the country highly recommend all dogs be current on their vaccinations including canine influenza. The vaccinations are not to be considered a cure, but they do enhance a dog’s immune system to help them stay healthy.

If you believe your dog has any of the above symptoms, you should isolate your pet and call a veterinarian immediately.

Telluride, more:

A former Victorian mining town in southwest Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, Telluride was incorporated in 1977 as a home-rule municipality. Set in a box canyon amid forested peaks at the base of the popular Telluride Ski & Golf Resort, the town’s historic district houses landmarks like the Sheridan Opera House, a performing arts venue originally built in 1913, and the Telluride Historical Museum, which showcases local history in a converted hospital built in 1896.

For more information, visit online at telluride-co.gov.