Kennel cough is the common name given to infectious bronchitis in dogs. It affects their respiratory system, causing them to cough. If your pup suffers from kennel cough it might show symptoms like a forceful, hacking cough. Your pup might feel that something is stuck in its throat.
This cough is distinct from reverse sneezing, a cough-like sound that some breeds commonly make. Reverse sneezing is kind of an irritation in the throat. You can often mistake reverse sneezing for coughing, sneezing, choking, retching, or gasping for air. Although your pup coughs he might still be healthy. However, some may also exhibit a runny nose, sneezing, or discharge from the eyes. Generally, if your pup suffers from kennel cough, you may give him a normal appetite.
Is Kennel Cough a Serious Condition?
It is usually more of a nuisance than a serious health threat. It often dissipates without any treatment. However, it can pose a greater risk to puppies, senior dogs, or those with pre-existing health conditions, potentially leading to pneumonia. If your pup has certain strains of infections it can be more severe, depending on the specific bacteria or virus involved.
How Do Dogs Contract Kennel Cough?
This cough is highly contagious. It spreads easily through the air, making it a common problem in crowded places like kennels. You might witness that bacteria can be a transmitting agent of kennel cough. If the shared items, such as toys, food bowls, or bedding have a contact of a pup suffering from kennel cough, it may inevitably spread across.
A dog’s respiratory system can eventually fend off infections, but certain conditions can make them more susceptible. If your pup is exposed to stressful situations, heavy dust, cigarette smoke, cold weather, and poor ventilation, your pup may contract kennel. The incubation period for kennel cough ranges from two to 14 days, and some dogs can carry and spread the infection for several months without showing any symptoms.
How Can You Diagnose It?
There isn’t a specific test for kennel cough. Typically, you can diagnose it based on the dog’s symptoms. Moreover, when pups expose themselves to other dogs during the incubation period, may catch kennel cough. Swabs can identify the specific virus or bacteria causing the infection, though this may not always be necessary for treatment. If you suspect your pup with complications, radiographs can help evaluate your pup’s condition.
If your dog remains bright, alert, eating well, and playful, a vet visit may not be necessary. However, if you have concerns, it’s advisable to call your vet for guidance. Always inform the clinic in advance if your dog is coughing, so they can arrange a separate waiting area to prevent potential spread. It’s best to keep your dog away from other dogs until the coughing stops.
How To Treat Kennel Cough
In most cases, dogs will recover from kennel cough without any medical intervention, usually within three weeks, although it can occasionally last up to six weeks. Keep your home well-ventilated and avoid using a collar and leash, as pulling on the leash can irritate the windpipe. Instead, use a harness for walks. If treatment is necessary, antibiotics can target the Bordetella bacteria—one of the most common bacteria in kennel cough cases. Additionally, You can give your pup cough suppressants and anti-inflammatory medications that make him more comfortable as they recover naturally.
Can a Dog Get Kennel Cough More Than Once?
Yes, dogs can contract kennel cough multiple times since there are numerous strains, similar to the human cold. If your dog catches the Bordetella bronchiseptica strain, it will usually be immune to that specific strain for six to 12 months.
Should I Vaccinate My Dog Against Kennel Cough?
When your dog is a puppy, there are numerous standard vaccines to protect itself from several infections. These include canine adenovirus type two, canine parainfluenza virus, canine distemper, and canine influenza.
The most common bacteria linked to this cough is Bordetella bronchiseptica. You can find vaccines for Bordetella bronchiseptica either nasal drops or an injection. As it has many strains, the vaccine does not guarantee complete immunity. But it at least reduces the severity of symptoms. It’s important to note that vaccination is ineffective if the dog is already in the incubation phase of kennel cough.
You can give the nasal vaccine for Bordetella bronchiseptica to your pup when your pup is three weeks old and it protects for about 12 months. It takes about four days for the vaccine to become effective and is considered the quickest way to develop immunity.
While the vaccine does not guarantee protection, many boarding facilities require dogs to be vaccinated against Bordetella bronchiseptica before they can stay, helping to minimize the risk of outbreaks.
