A serious mystery illness affecting dogs has been reported in Ohio and Michigan and officials from both states report almost a dozen associated deaths so far. Lindsay Rutland, DVM, from the Emergency Veterinary Hospital in Ann Arbor, has treated dogs with the illness and is concerned that the illness may be a problem at other veterinary hospitals as well.

The most common clinical signs are vomiting, bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and lethargy. Dr. Rutland also reported respiratory issues. In an interesting twist, she advised that pet owners have been experiencing similar symptoms. Human symptoms begin with sudden and severe abdominal pain, then lethargy, vomiting, and bloating, and finally shortness of breath and coughing. However, while Dr. Rutland strongly suspects a link, there is no current evidence that the illness experienced by dogs and people is the same or that the illness can be transmitted between the species. Still, after both she and her young children got sick, she is taking precautions.

The illness was first reported late last summer in Ohio. Officials in both Ohio and Michigan do not believe the disease is spreading, but cases continue to present at Dr. Rutland's hospital. Should your dog exhibit any of the associated symptoms, it is recommended that you contact the hospital immediately.