Mystery dog illness puts Chicago pet owners on edge

State of play: The illness has been reported in 14 states, including Illinois, per the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Yes, but: According to Chicago's Animal Care and Control (CACC), there are no confirmed cases in the city, though that could be because due to limited tracking of the newly emerging disease.

Details: Symptoms appear similar to what is referred to as "kennel cough." They include coughing, sneezing and eye discharge, and can lead to pneumonia or hospitalization.

• Antibiotics have had mixed results in treating dogs.

What they're saying: "People should call ahead before bringing a dog with respiratory signs to a veterinarian or shelter so that they can assess them outside before bringing them into the facility," a CACC spokesperson tells Axios.

• The Illinois Department of Agriculture directs dog owners to contact a vet if they are concerned their pet may have contracted the illness. They also encourage vets to perform tests on other respiratory diseases to rule them out.

Between the lines: This couldn't come at a worse time for dog owners who will be traveling this holiday season.

• "If possible pet owners should be cautioned to avoid venues where groups gather with unfamiliar dogs, such as dog parks, day care, boarding, dog shows and groomers," the CACC says.
• "Unless limited to a stable group of healthy dogs."

Of note: Veterinarians also recommend owners get their dog vaccinated for the array of respiratory diseases that can affect canines.