There is serological evidence of all three mammalian serotypes of reovirus infection in the dog population, but little evidence of associated disease. Reoviruses have been isolated from dogs with and without respiratory disease, but Koch’s postulates have not been fulfilled. It is unlikely therefore that it is a significant cause of the kennel cough syndrome. However, as it seems to persist in the lymphatic tissues of infected dogs, and it is often found in dual infections with pathogens, it has been suggested that it may have an immunosuppressive effect that may exacerbate other viral pathogens.

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