(Area) A canine respiratory virus spreading through the Midwest is causing a cancellation of a local tradition in eastern Iowa.
Last week, we reported about his mysterious illness affecting dogs in Iowa. Mike Mardesen, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Anita Vet Clinic, says the illness is a cough that does not go away and is not responding to conventional treatment.
Since then, the American Veterinary Association is recommending dogs avoid each other to reduce the spread of the virus.
This led to the traditional cancellation of the annual Holiday Dog Walk in Bettendorf.
Dr. Mardesen says if a dog owner sees signs of this unknown illness with their pet, the best bet is to get a hold of your veterinarian, get an appointment, and get them checked out.
New Hampshire researchers say the mysterious illness may have started from a bacterial infection, which evolves into pneumonia or other health issues.
