Mystery dog illness spreading throughout UK

2nd February 2022

With reports that a mystery dog bug is spreading rapidly throughout the UK, vets are warning dog owners to stay vigilant and aware of the symptoms.

The illness is reported to cause ‘violent gastroenteritis-like symptoms’, according to the British Veterinary Association (BVA).

The bug was first reported in mid-January throughout Yorkshire and parts of North East England, with speculation it could be linked to the beaches in the area. However reports this week suggest that the illness is spreading rapidly throughout the UK, and many cases have been reported far inland. So far, there is no evidence to suggest that the illness is linked to beaches along the Yorkshire coast according to Dr Shotton of the BVA.

The latest analysis from SAVSNET suggests that Yorkshire’s levels of the disease have been statistically higher and therefore the spike in cases can be termed an outbreak in this region.

According to Dr Danielle Greenberg of SAVSNET, who are monitoring the outbreak, symptoms include:

• Prolific vomiting
• Severe diarrhoea
• Significant dehydration
• Anorexia and lethargy

BVA President Justine Shotton is advising dog owners not to panic. In the vast majority of cases, dogs will make a full recovery within five to ten days.

However, if symptoms persist or your pet is showing increasing signs of distress, you should seek prompt veterinary care, so that medication and fluids can be provided if needed.

For more information on the outbreak please visit: https://www.bva.co.uk/news-and-blog/news-article/mystery-dog-vomiting-bug-cases-prompt-veterinary-advice/