Dog Owner Shares Story of Loss From Mystery Virus Going Around In the Tampa Area

The loss of a pet hits hard. But one Tampa area dog owner who lost a German Shepherd this week is warning fellow pet lovers of a virus that's here in the Tampa area.

The problem certainly isn't isolated to Florida. In fact, USA Today wrote about the sickness recently. Dogs in 16 states have contracted the respiratory illness, according to the article. They say it's highly contagious and that it's similar to kennel cough. The big difference is the symptoms don't go away. Treatments don't seem to work.

The pet owner from the Tampa area, "ICYaLata" on reddit, says their dog started showing signs of a cold Friday. The dog didn't eat anything that night. By Sunday, the German Shepherd started having breathing problems and wouldn't lay down. That's when they decided to get some professional help. The ER team worked hard and tried a variety of medications and provided oxygen. But that afternoon, the dog died.

The owner shared his story to encourage pet owners to do what they can to protect their dogs. It doesn't seem to get passed on to cats and humans aren't at risk. The dog's owners think the virus might have been acquired at daycare. But they don't know for sure. They say the dog hadn't been taken to a dog park in a few weeks.

If you plan to travel over the holidays, many are suggesting you ask for friends or neighbors to watch over your dog instead of taking it to a pet hotel. The American Veterinary Medical Association says one important thing owners can do is make sure their pets' vaccines are updated. Also wash your hands after handling yours or other dogs.

It's always on dog-parent's mind whenever they go out. Can I bring my dog? With so many outdoor restaurants in the Tampa Bay area, a lot of places are accommodating to our four-legged babies. Some even have canine-friendly food on their menu. Whether you want to be near downtown Tampa or by the beach in St. Pete, we have the list of places to bring along your best friend.

We also have a list of the best dog bars in the Tampa Bay area. A lot of those places don't serve food but occasionally have food trucks. Also, dog bars may also require you register your dog to make sure they are healthy and non-aggressive. The best part about taking your pup to a dog-friendly restaurant is that you don't have to worry about that.

We went to Yelp to see what their recommendations are for the best dog friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay. They had a list of 10 places but we condensed it to our favorite 7 spots (and added a few of our own favorite places.) Another great hack is to download the BringFido app. This app will tell you any dog-friendly restaurant or hotel in your current area.

Ulele is a great spot for dogs, kids, date night, or any occasion! Their beautiful shaded patio is the perfect place to hangout with your pup! Plus you can take them for a walk on Tampa's riverwalk after your meal.

Any World of Beer welcomes dogs! We know the Westchase location will even let dogs hangout inside.

Riveters outdoor patio is a great hangout spot for pups.

Enjoy waterfront views of Old Tampa Bay with your pup at Salt Shack on the Bay. This place is such a hidden gem in the Tampa Bay area. They have some of the best seafood and cocktails.

Irish 31 is one of the most dog-friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay! They even have a special canine casserole that you can order for your pup!

Clear Sky Draught House in Dunedin has a huge patio that is perfect for doggos.

If you and your pup are ever down in St. Pete beach head to Buoys Waterfront Bar & Grill. You can hangout on their upstairs patio for those perfect sunset views, or head to the bar downstairs. Just know your bartender might serve your dog first!