SARS stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome and is a terrible illness that affected thousands in China back in 2002. That epidemic across the ocean affected as many as 8,000 people and killed at least 800 of them. The illness is caused by a coronavirus that can be difficult to detect. Dogs and puppies can both obtain coronaviruses that can eventually lead to their premature death. Typically, the virus will start in the animal’s small intestines and lymph nodes and then will be found in the dog’s waste for up to six months after the infection has been taken care of. In cats, there is also the possibility of a coronavirus that is called Infectious Peritonitis. This is an ailment that has multiple forms and has not been successfully tested or diagnosed yet. There are many clinical signs of a coronavirus infection whether it is in a dog, cat, or human.

Typically, an animal that is infected with a coronavirus will suffer a cough, difficulty breathing, or will sneeze continually. As well, the animal may vomit and experience diarrhea and a decreased appetite. Sometimes pets with a coronavirus will suffer a fever or will have issues with lethargy. Because all of these symptoms are also attributed to many other illnesses, it may be difficult for a veterinarian to detect SARS or a coronavirus right away. It may take extensive testing to ensure that this is the malady that your pet is suffering from. Coronavirus is spread a variety of different ways. Typically, if can be found in respiratory droplets that are expelled when an animal coughs or sneezes. The virus can also be transmitted when a person comes into contact with a contaminated surface.

When it comes to pets, both respiratory and fecal-oral transmissions are commonly seen. Pets often collect the dangerous germs because they do not commonly wash themselves. This is why as a pet owner it is essential to bathe your animals regularly so that they do not collect feces from other animals on their coats that could be full of viruses like this one. If you want to keep your pet from obtaining a coronavirus that could develop into a SARS-like illness, then you will want ot practice good sanitary habits and avoid close contact with other people and pets when you are sick. Sometimes animals can receive bacteria from a human, so if you are dealing with a coronavirus type ailment make sure that you do not spread those germs along to your pet.

For animals it is also important to avoid any locations where animals are densely congregated. Typically, these are the locations where pets tend to get sick. Keep your animal away from kennels, pet daycares, or pet shelters which are often unsanitary and full of diseased dogs. You should only allow your dog outside or allow your pet to interact with others if the animal is fully vaccinated. This will help to prevent a serious virus or illness in the future. Whenever your pet is showing signs of discomfort, respiratory illnesses, or stomach ailments, you should take your animal to the vet immediately. It is always better to be safe than sorry. A dog that is acting strange or is vomiting may recover from the ailment shortly, but there may be times that this is not possible and the illness will need to be treated with medication or a surgery. You will want to have a local vet ready to help you when you need assistance. Use this directory to find a vet that can best assist you today!