What is kennel cough?
Kennel cough (canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is a respiratory infection in dogs caused by many different bacteria and viruses. This infection results in the inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, including the trachea and larynx. Most commonly, kennel cough is caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is why kennel cough may be referred to as Bordetella.
Common signs that your dog may have contracted kennel cough and should be examined by your veterinarian:
- Dry, hacking cough (severe or persisting)
- Lethargy/low energy
- Increased temperature
- Reduced appetite
- Sneezing, discharge from eyes or nose (less common)
How do dogs get kennel cough?
Kennel cough is an infection that is passed primarily through direct contact among dogs or other surfaces such as food/water bowls or toys and can even be transmitted through air particles (airborne transmission). Kennel cough can also survive in the environment for several weeks.
How can I prevent my dog from getting kennel cough?
Annually vaccinating your dog against kennel cough (Bordetella) every 12 months is the best way to reduce your dog’s risk of contracting kennel cough. The vaccination can be given orally, intranasally (in the nose), or as an injection. If your dog frequents areas such as dog parks or daycare, it is very important to be attentive and recognize early signs of symptoms so you can avoid spreading it to other dogs. Although there are many strains of Bordetella, and it is not possible to completely vaccinate against every single one, regular vaccination improves your dog’s immune response to the virus and can reduce the severity of it. This is comparable to the way that the human flu works. Even though you may have been vaccinated, you may still contract a strain of the virus. However, your body’s immune response will be much stronger than if you did not receive the vaccine.
What do I do if I suspect my dog may have kennel cough?
If you suspect your dog may have kennel cough, it is best to call your veterinarian and have him/her assessed and a diagnosis confirmed to rule out any other possibilities for the symptoms.
As kennel cough is extremely contagious among dogs, the affected dog should be isolated from other dogs until your veterinarian can examine him/her and make a diagnosis. This means avoiding public places (especially dog parks, doggy daycare, kennels/boarding facilities and groomers) until you can be certain that there is no risk of infecting other dogs. Sometimes this period can last up to two to three weeks after symptoms conclude.
Some dogs may improve on their own, and others may require treatment. Puppies younger than 6 months, older dogs and immune-compromised dogs have a significantly higher risk of developing severe kennel cough symptoms because of their weakened immune response. Encouraging rest and avoiding strenuous activity and heavy exercise is very important when your dog is recovering from kennel cough.