Dog Respiratory Illness in Spokane: What Pet Parents Should Know

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Dog Respiratory Illness in Spokane: What Pet Parents Should Know

Recently, SpokAnimal temporarily closed its dog shelter to the public after a respiratory illness spread through part of their canine population. Roughly half of the dogs in their care showed signs of the illness, and some developed pneumonia. The shelter has sent samples to a lab for testing, but an exact cause hasn’t been pinpointed yet. In the meantime, staff are treating symptoms and monitoring recovery. KREM+1

This kind of respiratory disease in dogs — often called canine infectious respiratory disease (or “kennel cough”) — isn’t uncommon, especially in group environments like shelters, daycares, training classes, or grooming salons. It can be caused by a mix of viruses and bacteria that spread easily through coughing, sneezing, or close contact. Wikip
edia

Signs to Watch For

If your dog has been around other dogs recently, keep an eye out for:

  • Persistent cough or gagging

  • Sneezing or runny nose

  • Congestion or excess mucus

  • Lower energy or reduced appetite

If you notice these signs, a call to your veterinarian helps get appropriate guidance early.

How to Reduce the Risk

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent every respiratory bug, but these steps can lower risk:

✴ Vaccinations
Talk with your vet about vaccines that protect against common respiratory agents (like Bordetella and parainfluenza). Even though vaccines aren’t perfect, they can reduce severity and spread.

✴ Monitor social exposure
If your dog’s been around lots of other dogs (parks, daycare, grooming events), be alert for early symptoms. Keeping a symptomatic dog out of group settings helps prevent spread.

✴ Clean gear and spaces
Frequent washing of toys, bedding, leashes, and collars — and wiping down surfaces — helps reduce lingering germs.

Groomers Are on Alert

Local groomers are paying close attention right now. If your dog arrives with signs of coughing, sneezing, discharge, lethargy, or other respiratory symptoms, many groomers will:

  • Ask to reschedule your appointment

  • Suggest a vet check first

  • Make sure other dogs in the salon aren’t exposed

This isn’t about stigma — it’s about keeping everyone’s dogs healthy and reducing stress on small businesses already juggling demand and staffing.

If Your Dog Gets Sick

  • Keep them home from parks and classes until a vet gives the all-clear.

  • Follow your vet’s advice on rest, fluids, and medication.

  • Watch for signs of worsening (like trouble breathing or high fever), especially in puppies or older dogs.

Respiratory issues can resolve on their own, but secondary infections like pneumonia can require treatment.

Bottom Line

Spokane’s current dog respiratory illness spread has led to changes at shelters and more cautious practices among groomers and pet parents alike. Awareness of symptoms, smart scheduling, vaccination discussions with your vet, and keeping sick dogs out of group settings are simple ways to help keep your pup (and other dogs) safer.

This resource was created by Lilac City Pet Care LLC, the parent company of Penny’s Paw Spa. 

Location: 321 W Hastings Rd #103, Spokane, WA 99218, USA

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