Dog beach sickness virus: What to do if you’re affected

Over the last couple of months in the UK, an increasing number of owners have seen their dogs getting poorly after visiting the coast. So far over 150 dogs are reported to have become unwell after visiting a beach, with a growing number of cases being reported inland.

Petsure vet ambassador Dr Scott Miller is here to talk through what we know about the mystery sickness bug so far. You’ll find advice on how to protect your pup and what to do if they fall ill. You can also find out how your pet insurance can protect you from those unexpected vet bills.

Table of contents

• What are the symptoms of this mystery dog sickness?
  > Where are dogs picking up the sickness bug?
  > What’s causing this dog sickness?
• Should I be worried if my dog gets the sickness bug?
  > What should I do if my dog is showing symptoms of the bug?
  > Can I treat my dog’s sickness symptoms at home?
  > Guidance from Petsure’s pet underwriter

What are the symptoms of this mystery dog sickness?

The known symptoms of sickness are similar to those of gastroenteritis – a high temperature, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

The severity of the illness in individual dogs varies, but there have been some reports of death, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your pup.

> Where are dogs picking up the sickness bug?

Currently, a lot of the mystery sickness bug hotspots are in coastal areas around the UK. Cases were first reported along the Yorkshire coast, but now there are signs of some cases appearing inland as well.

Some of the main areas where dogs have fallen ill include:

• Hayling Island beach
• Langstone Harbour in Hampshire
• Fraisthorpe Beach in East Riding
• Bridlington
• Redcar beach

> What’s causing this dog sickness?

It’s not yet certain what’s causing this sickness bug. The government’s Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) says the specific cause of the reported illness which is leading to dogs falling sick has yet to be identified. Vets are also running tests on samples from affected dogs, but don’t have enough evidence to get a clear answer.

There are often seasonal variations in viruses, especially in the colder months. Looking at how fast the illness is spreading, we can guess that a virus is the most likely cause.

Should I be worried if my dog gets the sickness bug?

It’s understandable to be concerned, but try not to panic. A few years ago there was an increase in gastroenteritis, and this was seen as a normal virus variation for the season.

If you live in a known hot spot area, here’s some steps you can take to protect your dog:

• Keep your dog on a lead at all times.
• Don’t let your pup lick surfaces or chew things outside.
• Stay a safe distance away from other dogs, in case the illness can be passed.
• Think about avoiding busy parks or busy times of the day.

> What should I do if my dog is showing symptoms of the bug?

Always contact your vet if your dog is vomiting or has diarrhoea, as these are signs your dog is becoming very unwell and needs prompt treatment.

Ignoring these symptoms could put your pup at serious risk, with rare cases resulting in death. Dogs become dehydrated, anaemic, and hypoglycemic, and many need treatment in vet hospitals.

Petsure customers have free 24/7 access to video consultations with a FirstVet vet. Book an appointment if you notice any symptoms or changes to your dog’s behaviour.

> Can I treat my dog’s sickness symptoms at home?

Your first port of call should be to speak with your local vet. They may recommend bringing your pup into the clinic or taking them to a vet hospital, but treatment will differ for each individual dog.

Probiotics may be used for cases of diarrhoea, with other treatments including anti-nausea drugs, IV fluids in a vet hospital, and further supportive care.

> Guidance from Petsure’s pet underwriter

The mystery dog illness is worrying as we see it is spreading. It’s difficult to know where it is safe to walk your dog, but exercise is so important, for us as well as your pooch.

We all hope our beloved pets won’t catch the illness, but these unexpected veterinary bills, especially if your dog has to be hospitalised, can put even more pressure on our household bills.

That’s why insuring your cat or dog is recommended. Pet insurance gives pet owners peace of mind that those veterinary bills are covered and there are different policy levels to suit most budgets.