Kennel Cough: A Comprehensive Guide to Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, and spreads through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. Kennel cough is characterized by a hacking, dry cough that can last for several weeks.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
- Hacking, dry cough
- Coughing that is worse at night
- Coughing that is triggered by exercise or excitement
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
Causes of Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses. The most common bacteria involved is Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is spread through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. Other bacteria that can cause kennel cough include Mycoplasma cynos and Chlamydia psittaci. The most common viruses involved in kennel cough are parainfluenza virus and adenovirus type 2.
Risk Factors for Kennel Cough
Any dog can get kennel cough, but some dogs are at higher risk than others. These include:
- Puppies
- Dogs that are not vaccinated against kennel cough
- Dogs that are in close contact with other dogs, such as in a boarding kennel or doggie daycare
- Dogs that are stressed or have a weakened immune system
Prevention of Kennel Cough
The best way to prevent kennel cough is to vaccinate your dog. The kennel cough vaccine is a core vaccine for all dogs, and it is typically given as a series of two or three shots. The vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can significantly reduce the risk of your dog getting kennel cough.
In addition to vaccination, there are other things you can do to help prevent kennel cough:
- Keep your dog away from other dogs that are coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling an infected dog.
- Disinfect surfaces that may have been contaminated with the kennel cough virus.
Diagnosis of Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is typically diagnosed based on the dog’s symptoms and a physical examination. Your veterinarian may also recommend a blood test or chest X-ray to rule out other conditions.
Treatment of Kennel Cough
There is no specific cure for kennel cough, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms and prevent complications. These treatments may include:
- Antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection
- Cough suppressants to relieve the cough
- Expectorants to help thin mucus and make it easier to cough up
- Rest and fluids to help the dog recover
Prognosis for Kennel Cough
Most dogs with kennel cough will recover within a few weeks. However, some dogs may develop complications, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. These complications can be more serious and may require additional treatment.
FAQ
Q: What is the incubation period for kennel cough?
A: The incubation period for kennel cough is typically 2-10 days.
Q: Is kennel cough contagious to humans?
A: Kennel cough is not typically contagious to humans. However, people with weakened immune systems may be at risk of developing a similar infection.
Q: Can my dog get kennel cough more than once?
A: Yes, it is possible for a dog to get kennel cough more than once. However, each time a dog gets the infection, it will typically be less severe than the previous time.
Q: How can I prevent my dog from getting kennel cough again?
A: The best way to prevent your dog from getting kennel cough again is to keep it up-to-date on its vaccinations. You should also avoid exposing your dog to other dogs that are coughing or sneezing.
Q: What should I do if I think my dog has kennel cough?
A: If you think your dog has kennel cough, you should take it to the veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian will be able to diagnose the infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
