‘Last-resort’ antibiotic saves family dog from mystery disease

news

by Deirdre Bardolph

A Southern California family says it was a “last resort” antibiotic that saved their show dog from a mysterious, treatment-resistant respiratory disease plaguing puppies across the country.

The Oliver family’s golden retriever, Ike, became ill while competing in a dog show in September. ABC7 Los Angeles reported.

Ike was taken to a veterinary hospital and placed in isolation.

After multiple tests, the 5-year-old puppy was diagnosed with a strange disease known as Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex.

There is still no specific treatment or medicine for the disease.

A stranger online suggested chloramphenicol, which is used for serious bacterial infections, and within hours Ike’s breathing was better, the family said.

After a few days, he was able to return home.

“It’s a very strong last-resort antibiotic, but it’s what saved him,” Becky Oliver told ABC7. “Otherwise he wouldn’t be here.”

The disease has also been reported in Oregon, Indiana, Illinois, Washington, Idaho, Nevada and throughout the Northeast, with some deaths.

The Oregon Department of Agriculture says it has received more than 200 reports of the condition since August.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said: 10 cases were reported there within a week.

However, labs in other states are starting research in 2022.

The North Shore Animal Federation of America on Long Island said it has not seen an increase in disease among the rescue population.

“As winter approaches, dogs, just like humans, tend to experience an increase in respiratory illnesses, especially if they spend time indoors with other pets,” said Mark Berdino, the organization’s chief of veterinary staff. he told the Post.

Infection is especially common in dog kennels, groomers, daycare centers, and dog runs.

“I cannot overstate the importance of keeping your pet up to date with vaccinations and seeking prompt veterinary care if respiratory symptoms occur,” Berdino added.

Veterinarians say dogs may exhibit typical symptoms of upper respiratory illness, such as sneezing, runny noses, coughs, and lethargy, but will not test positive for common illnesses.

This mysterious disease, which does not respond to standard treatments, has baffled veterinarians and is still being researched. Some think that another antibiotic, doxycycline, may also be effective.