Dear friends and clients of Off Leash MKE,

We hope this message finds you and your furry companions in good health and high spirits. In recent weeks, there has been increasing concern about a mysterious respiratory illness affecting dogs in several states, including our neighbors in Illinois. While there are no reported cases in Wisconsin as of now, it's likely it will make it to our area. We don’t believe our dog walking services or Adventure Club is at risk, however, staying informed about what to look for, and knowing what action we should take in case we do come in contact with this illness is top of mind.

What we know so far, not much! The scope and understanding of the illness is still in the early stages. Veterinarians in several states, including Colorado, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Rhode Island, are actively investigating a respiratory illness that resembles kennel cough. This strain does not respond to traditional veterinary treatment interventions, and if left untreated, it can progress to pneumonia. Dogs affected by this unidentified illness may show symptoms such as cough, fever, lethargy, eye/nasal discharge, and intermittent loss of appetite.

Cases seem concentrated in areas with a high density of dogs, such as boarding facilities, doggy daycares, and dog parks. Since mid-August, Oregon has reported over 200 cases. While some experts express concern that the illness may be more widespread, others emphasize that reported cases represent only a small fraction of the total dog population.

The cause of the illness, whether bacterial or viral, remains uncertain. Notably, some dogs have not responded to antibiotics, suggesting a potential viral origin. Researchers are diligently conducting tests to determine if the organisms causing the illness share a common genetic makeup, indicating a significant yet undefined occurrence.

Off Leash MKE's precautions:

At Off Leash MKE, the safety and well-being of your pets are our top priorities. We want to assure you that we are closely monitoring the situation, staying informed through reliable sources, and taking additional precautions to maintain a safe environment for your furry family members.

Cleaning Supplies:

Our team is equipped with disinfectant wipes and sprays. We are committed to maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for your pets.

Pet Gear Sanitization:

We regularly clean and disinfect leashes and Toys and gear used on or with your pets.

Transportation Cleaning:

Our vehicles undergo regular cleaning and disinfection, with special attention given to surfaces that pets may come into contact with during transportation.

Hand Hygiene:

Our team washes and/or disinfects their hands between services.

Health Monitoring:

Our team is trained to recognize signs of illness in the pets we care for. If any symptoms are noticed, our established protocols ensure prompt notification to pet owners.

Communication with Pet Owners:

We believe in open communication. We will keep you informed about the additional cleaning measures we are implementing to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets.

What You Can Do:

Stay Informed:

Keep yourself informed about the situation through reputable sources, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Observations at Home:

If your pet shows any respiratory symptoms, isolate them at home and consult with your vet promptly. Avoid places with a high concentration of dogs until you receive guidance from a professional.

Open Communication:

Please keep us informed of any changes in your pet's health or behavior. Open communication helps us provide the best care possible.

We will continue to stay up-to-date on this illness. We appreciate your help in keeping the dog community safe. Have a happy and healthy holiday season!