What is Kennel Cough?

What is Kennel Cough?

“Kennel Cough” is a common highly contagious upper respiratory disease in dogs. It is caused by a Canine Para-influenza virus, a bacteria called Bordetella, or a combination of the two.

Kennel cough is commonly seen in dogs that are exposed to many other dogs in confined places such as shelters or kennels. The disease infects only dogs and puppies and cannot be transmitted to humans.

Just like a cold in humans, the infection is transferred by fluid discharge from the nose or mouth from an infected dog. It is shed through the air by sneezing, coughing or breathing. Infected items that can spread the disease are called vectors, these can be cages, toys, bowls and caretakers.

Some dogs are silent carriers and can spread the disease without showing symptoms themselves.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of Kennel Cough is a dry cough, in some cases a gagging cough.

Cough is often triggered by excitement, exercise or pressure on the trachea from the collar for example.  Some dogs will have some runny nose or purulent nasal discharge.

Infected dogs are otherwise usually bright and active, with a good appetite and no fever.

In some cases, Kennel Cough can progress to pneumonia or sinus infection. In these cases, the dogs will cough up mucus, have difficulty breathing, fever and loss of appetite.

Treatment and prevention

A vaccine (generally intra-nasal) can protect your dog against Kennel Cough, it is highly recommended (and in most cases now, required ) if your dog is going to kennels or day care. The vaccine should be repeated every 6 months or as recommended by your veterinarian.

Hygienic measures are important! Replace the collar by a harness, give only room temperature water and keep the A/C not too low.

Your vet may sometimes prescribe anti-inflammatories or cough medication. Sometimes antibiotics are required to prevent secondary infections.