Dear Jeni,

We have some important information to share with you.  We have had some dogs come down with Canine Cough which is similar to a cold in humans. 

Please do not panic. We don't want to worry you, we just want you to be aware and to look out for certain symptoms. If your dog is coughing, sneezing, or has eye or nose discharge, then please do not bring your dog to daycare. When they come down with a cough it is contagious and we don't want to risk other dogs getting sick. We recommend calling your regular veterinarian if you see symptoms of Canine Cough. It will be safe for your dog to come back once medications are completed and your pet is no longer exhibiting any symptoms.

I know your first thought is that your dog is vaccinated against Canine Cough and that she/he is already protected. Yes this is true and we require the vaccination every 6 months for extra protection, but it only covers one strain (just like the human flu vaccine). This is a newer strain that we are seeing and it also depends on the dog's immune system. Most dogs will never contract it, but if they have a weaker immune system (i.e. puppies, older dogs, or new dogs to this type of environment) then they are more susceptible to picking it up. Parents, it's similar to your child coming home in the beginning of the school year with a cold. This is a social environment which dogs are always in contact with each other.

As usual, we are doing everything we can to prevent spreading and exposure.  We are constantly cleaning and disinfecting; we switched chemicals so the current virus doesn't become immune to them, and we changed the air filters in our ventilation system. Our staff are still bringing their own dogs to socialize.

We thank you for your attention in this matter.  If you have any doubt that your dog may be suffering from Canine Cough, and need your questions answered, please contact our Resort Manager, Jenna Yurkins at:

508.588.5661 or email Jyurkins@jmpetresort.com