A Southern California family said a “last resort” antibiotic saved their show dog after he fell ill with a mysterious, treatment-resistant respiratory illness that affects puppies nationwide.
The Oliver family’s Golden Retriever, Ike, became ill in September while on tour competing in dog shows, ABC7 Los Angeles reported.
Ike was taken to a veterinary hospital where he was quarantined.
After multiple tests, the 5-year-old pup was diagnosed with a rare illness known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex.
There is still no specific treatment or medication for the disease.
A stranger online suggested chloramphenicol, which is used for serious bacterial infections, and within hours Ike was breathing better, his family said.
Days later he was able to return home.
A Southern California family is speaking out after an intense “last resort” antibiotic saved their dog from a mysterious respiratory illness spreading among puppies across the country. ABC7
“It’s a very, very strong last resort antibiotic, but it’s what saved him,” Becky Oliver told ABC7. “Otherwise I wouldn’t be here.”
The disease has also been reported in Oregon, Indiana, Illinois, Washington, Idaho, Nevada and throughout the Northeast, with some fatal cases.
Since August, the Oregon Department of Agriculture has received more than 200 reports of the condition, he said.
Becky and John Oliver’s Golden Retriever, Ike, fell ill with a rare respiratory illness in September and was cured when a stranger recommended the antibiotic chloramphenicol.ABC7
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said 10 cases were reported there in less than a week.
However, laboratories in other states have been studying it since 2022.
The North Shore Animal League America of Long Island said it has not seen any increase in the disease among its rescue population.
Ike, the Oliver family’s Golden Retriever, became ill in September while on tour competing in dog shows. ABC7
“With winter upon us, dogs, like people, are prone to an increase in respiratory illnesses, especially if they spend time indoors with other pets,” Mark Verdino, chief of veterinary staff at the organization.
They are particularly susceptible in kennels, groomers, daycares and dog parks.
“The importance of being up to date on vaccinations and having your pet seen by a veterinarian quickly if respiratory symptoms develop cannot be overstated,” Verdino added.
The bewildering complex of canine infectious respiratory diseases has perplexed veterinarians across the country. ABC7
Dogs may show symptoms of a typical upper respiratory illness (sneezing, runny nose, coughing and lack of energy), but they do not test positive for common illnesses, according to veterinarians.
The puzzling disease, which can be resistant to standard treatments, has stumped veterinarians and is still being researched. Some believe that another antibiotic, doxycycline, may also be effective.
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Source: vtt.edu.vn