The highly contagious canine infectious respiratory disease complex — or kennel cough — prompts recommendations to ‘avoid going to a dog park or a kennel.’

Similar to the flu season in humans, a respiratory virus is spreading among dogs, known as a canine infectious respiratory disease complex or kennel cough. This airborne and highly contagious virus has not been reported recently in La Jolla, but veterinarians are monitoring the situation and providing recommendations to pet owners.

La Jolla Shores resident Janie Emerson learned about the virus through the American Kennel Club and her veterinarian, who didn’t comment on this story. Kennel’s cough typically starts with a cough and a runny nose, possibly progressing to pneumonia, which can be serious.

The American Veterinary Medical Association describes the classic sign of kennel cough as a frequent, honking cough that comes on suddenly, resembling gagging or retching. It may involve froth that looks like vomit, and coughing tends to worsen with activity. While not all dogs will exhibit a cough, some may show symptoms such as sneezing or a runny nose.

In most cases, the illness is mild, and dogs recover within seven to 10 days. However, severe signs like lethargy, decreased appetite, fever, productive cough, and rapid or labored breathing may indicate bacterial pneumonia, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

Veterinarian comments are scarce, but some are suggesting the use of multiple antibiotics in more aggressive cases since the usual antibiotic may not be effective.

Pet owners, like Emerson, are taking extra precautions, avoiding exposure by refraining from activities such as dog shows where animals from around the world gather.

As the canine respiratory virus circulates, vigilance and prompt veterinary care are essential to ensure the well-being of dogs and prevent the spread of the illness.