Kennel Cough, also called tracheobronchitis, is an extremely contagious illness affecting a dog's upper respiratory system. It is similar to bronchitis in humans. It acquired its name due to its prevalence and quick spread in places where many dogs are kept in a small space, such as kennels.
Symptoms
A dog with kennel cough usually has a hacking cough; some owners say it sounds like the dog has something stuck in its throat, and others have said it sounds like a honk. The dog may also retch, or have a watery discharge from its nose. In severe cases, dogs will be lethargic, will not eat, and will be feverish.
Causes
Kennel cough can be caused by a viral infection, such as canine influenza virus or canine adenovirus, or a bacterial infection, such as Bordatella bronchiseptica. The infections that cause kennel cough are usually spread by coughing and sneezing, and one infected dog that is confined with several healthy dogs can infect them.
Treatment
In mild cases, a veterinarian will just recommend that the infection be left to run its course. When symptoms are severe, veterinarians may recommend a human cough suppressant in dosage levels appropriate to the dog in question. In certain cases, antibiotics are also recommended; however, they will only be effective if the kennel cough comes from a bacterial, not viral, source.
Fast Facts:
- Incubation period: 2 To 14 days
- Prevalent in boarding kennels and animal shelters
- Easily prevented by standard 5-way or 7-way dog vaccines
- Treated with cough suppressants and antibiotics
- Most common dog illness
Kennel Cough Journals and Clinical Trials
The Merck Veterinary Manual: Kennel Cough Information and Clinical Findings
UC Davis: Kennel Cough Medical Journals
Vetinfo.com: Kennel Cough Veterinary Medical Information
Macvets: Kennel Cough Fact Sheets
Veterinary Record: A study of Dogs with Kennel Cough
NCBI: Infectious Tracheobronchitis: Effects of an Intranasal Live.....(Kennel Cough)
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