Labrador with Kennel Cough coughing

This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about kennel cough, including how to identify signs and symptoms, how to treat the condition, and how to prevent it.

Kennel cough is the most common name given to this condition, but it is also known as canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) or infectious tracheobronchitis.

This condition is caused by an airborne virus that can affect dogs of any age, and will have varying effects depending on the dog’s age and health. The good news is that you can prevent your dog from suffering with kennel cough and from spreading it to other dogs.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a respiratory infection in dogs that is highly contagious and will spread rapidly. It is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses including Bordetella bronchiseptica, Canine adenovirus and Canine parainfluenzavirus. These agents cause inflammation of the larynx and irritation to the windpipe, resulting in a dry hacking cough that can last for up to a month.

Dogs can get kennel cough by coming into contact with an infected dog. This is most common at kennels, hence the name, but can also be picked up at any area where there are other dogs. This includes groomers, doggy day care, parks, large social events and training classes.

It is an airborne virus so even if you keep your dog separate from others, there is still a risk of them getting kennel cough. 
 

Kennel Cough in Puppies and Dogs

In most healthy dogs, the condition is not considered serious and often lasts for around 3 weeks.

Puppies, older dogs, and dogs with existing health conditions may have more severe reactions to kennel cough. Additional symptoms that these dogs may display include a reduced appetite, low energy and a high temperature. This puts them more at risk of dehydration. It is also possible for the infection to develop into pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs), which will need emergency veterinary treatment.

Recognising the Symptoms of Kennel Cough

Sick Beagle lying in bed

The most common symptom of kennel cough is the cough, which is a very distinctive dry hacking sound. It often sounds as though the dog is choking on something stuck in its throat. Affected dogs may also have a high temperature and appear ‘out of sorts’ for a few days. Vomiting, sneezing and nasal discharge are less common but are also possible symptoms.

The cough will continue to get worse over the course of a few days but will then gradually get better after 2-3 weeks.

Treatment for Kennel Cough

There isn’t a specific kennel cough treatment option. Generally, the dog’s immune system will fight off the infection, but there are treatments that can be given to speed up their recovery. On some occasions, the infection can spread to the chest in which case antibiotics will be required. Some vets will prescribe cough syrup to lessen the cough if the coughing fits are severe.

To help your dog recover you should keep them in a warm environment and restrict their exercise. Take them on a short walk, keeping them on lead with a harness instead of a collar. Avoid situations or areas that are likely to cause your dog to bark as this will often lead to a coughing fit. To avoid spreading the virus, you should also avoid areas where there are likely to be other dogs until it has been a few days after your dog has stopped coughing.

Kennel Cough Vaccination

Kennel cough can be prevented if your dog is protected with a vaccine, which needs to be topped up on a yearly basis. Mostly, this vaccine is given as drops into the nose but there are also injections available. The vaccination will not be given to your dog if it has kennel cough, as it is a preventative measure rather than a treatment.

If your dog is going to be staying in kennels, the vaccination will need to be done at least 14 days before their stay. Most kennels require proof of vaccination before they will allow a dog to stay with them; this is to ensure all dogs in the kennels are protected from the virus.

A dog that has previously had kennel cough is not immune from the infection; they can get it again and can also have it without many symptoms.

With kennel cough being a highly contagious condition, having your dog vaccinated on a yearly basis is extremely important. Even if your dog is not going to be staying in kennels, going to a groomer, or spending time at a doggy day care, they are still at risk. Even if your dog is fit and healthy, and less likely to suffer from having kennel cough, they would be able to pass it on to other dogs who may be more vulnerable.

By vaccinating your dog, you can have peace of mind knowing your dog is protected wherever you decide to take them, and they can be free to make new doggy friends without the risk of passing on the infection.

Everypaw's Insurance for Dogs

If your four-legged bundle of fun is feeling a little under the weather, Everypaw’s Dog Insurance can be there to help them get back onto their feet. There are five levels of Lifetime cover to choose from, and our top two levels come with the 5 Star Defaqto seal of approval.

While we wish we could cover everything when it comes to your precious pooch. Routine treatments for things like vaccinations aren’t covered. And if you don’t vaccinate your pet as your vet recommends, conditions that can be vaccinated against won’t be covered.

Click here to get a quote.
 

 

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Content provided from Vetstream's Vetlexicon Canis - www.vetstream.com/treat/canis 

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