Anxious pet owners across the U.S. want to know one thing: When can we let our dogs out?

Ever since news broke of a mysterious and potentially deadly canine respiratory illness sweeping the country, veterinarians have been advising owners to play it safe and limit contact with other dogs.

The canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), which can cause symptoms including coughing, fever and fatigue, has sickened thousands of dogs in at least 19 states–including Florida. Although the illness first broke out in Oregon in late summer of 2023, news of the virus spread nationwide when the American Veterinary Medical Association issued a warning in November. 

Although the exact cause of CIRDC remains unclear, cases are rapidly spreading and dog owners are growing concerned. “Vets across the United States are seeing an increased number of dogs with acute respiratory infections ranging from mild symptoms to life threatening pneumonia,” said Dr. Marianna Dallessandro, a veterinarian at West Boca Veterinary Center who has been sharing information to help keep pets safe and their owners calm. 

Dr. Dallesandro advises pet parents to be on the watch for numerous symptoms, such as sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, fever, loss of appetite, and coughing. If pet owners notice any of these symptoms, they should consult their veterinarian immediately.  It is also important that the dog is isolated from other pets, since this disease is transmitted through secretions and saliva. While it’s unlikely that the respiratory illness can transfer to humans, the AVMA suggests that anyone handling dogs should wash their hands thoroughly.

To help protect your pup from contracting the illness, Dr. Dallessandro recommends avoiding dog parks or public daycares until more research is completed. She noted, “As of this moment, there is no vaccine available, but it is best to keep pets up to date on all of their vaccinations, especially Bordetella and Influenza.”