Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It is caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus-2, and Mycoplasma canis.
Kennel cough is spread through the air, through direct contact with an infected dog, or through contact with contaminated objects. Dogs that are in close contact with other dogs, such as those in kennels, shelters, or dog parks, are at an increased risk of infection. Kennel cough can also be transmitted to humans, although this is rare.
Symptoms of kennel cough can vary from mild to severe. Mild cases may only cause a slight cough, while severe cases can lead to pneumonia. Common symptoms of kennel cough include:
what is kennel cough
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs.
- Highly contagious
- Affects dogs of all ages
- Spread through the air or contact
- Causes a hacking cough
- May also cause sneezing, fever, and lethargy
- Can be prevented with vaccination
- Treated with antibiotics and cough suppressants
- Rarely fatal
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it is rarely fatal. With proper treatment, most dogs recover completely within a few weeks.
Highly contagious
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection, meaning that it can spread easily from one dog to another. This is because the bacteria and viruses that cause kennel cough are airborne, meaning that they can be spread through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. They can also be spread through direct contact with an infected dog, or through contact with contaminated objects, such as food bowls, water bowls, toys, or bedding.
- Close contact
Dogs that are in close contact with other dogs, such as those in kennels, shelters, or dog parks, are at an increased risk of infection. This is because the virus can be spread through the air or through direct contact with an infected dog.
- Sharing items
Sharing food bowls, water bowls, toys, or bedding with an infected dog can also spread the virus. This is because the virus can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours.
- Human transmission
Kennel cough can also be transmitted to humans, although this is rare. This can happen through close contact with an infected dog, or through contact with contaminated objects. Humans who are infected with kennel cough may experience mild respiratory symptoms, such as a cough, sore throat, and runny nose.
- Vaccination
There is a vaccine available to help prevent kennel cough. The vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can help to reduce the risk of infection. Dogs that are vaccinated against kennel cough are still able to spread the virus to other dogs, but they are less likely to become infected themselves.
Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease, but it is preventable. By vaccinating your dog and taking steps to avoid contact with infected dogs, you can help to protect your dog from this common respiratory infection.
Affects dogs of all ages
Kennel cough can affect dogs of all ages, from puppies to senior dogs. However, puppies and older dogs are at an increased risk of developing severe complications from kennel cough. This is because their immune systems are not as strong as those of adult dogs.
Puppies are particularly susceptible to kennel cough because their immune systems are still developing. They have not yet been exposed to all of the viruses and bacteria that can cause kennel cough, so they are more likely to become infected. Additionally, puppies' airways are smaller than those of adult dogs, so they are more likely to experience respiratory distress if they develop kennel cough.
Older dogs are also at an increased risk of developing severe complications from kennel cough. This is because their immune systems may be weakened by age or underlying health conditions. Additionally, older dogs may have underlying heart or lung conditions that can make them more susceptible to respiratory infections.
While kennel cough is rarely fatal, it can be a serious illness, especially for puppies and older dogs. If your dog is showing any signs of kennel cough, it is important to take them to the veterinarian right away.
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it can be prevented with vaccination. Puppies and older dogs should be vaccinated against kennel cough to help protect them from this serious illness.
Spread through the air or contact
Kennel cough is spread through the air or through direct contact with an infected dog. This means that your dog can get kennel cough if they come into contact with an infected dog, even if they are not in the same room. Kennel cough can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as food bowls, water bowls, toys, or bedding.
The virus that causes kennel cough is very hardy and can survive for up to 48 hours on surfaces. This means that your dog can get kennel cough even if they have not had direct contact with an infected dog. For example, your dog could get kennel cough if they sniff a fire hydrant that has been recently used by an infected dog.
Kennel cough is most commonly spread in places where dogs congregate, such as kennels, shelters, and dog parks. However, it can also be spread in other places, such as veterinary clinics, grooming salons, and pet stores. If you take your dog to any of these places, it is important to be aware of the risk of kennel cough and to take steps to protect your dog.
The best way to protect your dog from kennel cough is to vaccinate them. The kennel cough vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can help to reduce the risk of infection. You should also avoid taking your dog to places where they may come into contact with infected dogs, and you should wash your hands thoroughly after handling an infected dog.
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it is preventable. By vaccinating your dog and taking steps to avoid contact with infected dogs, you can help to protect your dog from this serious illness.
Causes a hacking cough
The most common symptom of kennel cough is a hacking cough. This cough is often dry and unproductive, meaning that it does not produce any mucus. The cough may be worse at night or when the dog is excited or exercising.
- Inflammation of the trachea and bronchi
Kennel cough is caused by inflammation of the trachea and bronchi, which are the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. This inflammation is caused by the bacteria and viruses that cause kennel cough.
- Irritation of the throat
The inflammation of the trachea and bronchi can also irritate the throat, which can lead to coughing. Additionally, the bacteria and viruses that cause kennel cough can produce toxins that can further irritate the throat.
- Hacking cough
The combination of inflammation of the trachea and bronchi and irritation of the throat can lead to a hacking cough. This cough is often dry and unproductive, meaning that it does not produce any mucus.
- Other symptoms
In addition to a hacking cough, kennel cough can also cause other symptoms, such as sneezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. In severe cases, kennel cough can lead to pneumonia.
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it is rarely fatal. With proper treatment, most dogs recover completely within a few weeks.
May also cause sneezing, fever, and lethargy
In addition to a hacking cough, kennel cough can also cause other symptoms, such as sneezing, fever, and lethargy.
- Sneezing
Sneezing is a common symptom of kennel cough. It is caused by the irritation of the throat and airways that is caused by the bacteria and viruses that cause kennel cough.
- Fever
Fever is also a common symptom of kennel cough. It is caused by the body's response to the infection. A fever can help to kill the bacteria and viruses that are causing the infection.
- Lethargy
Lethargy, or lack of energy, is another common symptom of kennel cough. This is because kennel cough can make dogs feel sick and uncomfortable. Additionally, the coughing can be tiring for dogs.
- Other symptoms
In addition to sneezing, fever, and lethargy, kennel cough can also cause other symptoms, such as nasal discharge, loss of appetite, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, kennel cough can lead to pneumonia.
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it is rarely fatal. With proper treatment, most dogs recover completely within a few weeks.
Can be prevented with vaccination
The best way to prevent kennel cough is to vaccinate your dog. The kennel cough vaccine is a modified-live vaccine, which means that it contains a weakened form of the virus that causes kennel cough.
The kennel cough vaccine is typically given to puppies starting at 6 to 8 weeks of age. The vaccine is given in a series of two or three injections, and it is important to complete the entire series in order to provide your dog with the best protection against kennel cough.
The kennel cough vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can help to reduce the risk of infection by up to 95%. This means that even if your dog is exposed to the virus that causes kennel cough, they are less likely to become infected.
If your dog is at high risk of developing kennel cough, your veterinarian may recommend giving them a booster vaccine every six to twelve months. Dogs that are at high risk of kennel cough include dogs that are frequently boarded, dogs that attend doggy daycare, and dogs that compete in dog shows or other events where they may come into contact with other dogs.
Vaccinating your dog against kennel cough is the best way to protect them from this serious respiratory infection. Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating your dog against kennel cough today.
Treated with antibiotics and cough suppressants
Kennel cough is typically treated with antibiotics and cough suppressants. Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria that are causing the infection, while cough suppressants are used to help relieve the coughing.
The type of antibiotic that is used to treat kennel cough will depend on the specific bacteria that is causing the infection. Your veterinarian will perform a culture and sensitivity test to determine which antibiotic is most effective against the bacteria that is causing your dog's kennel cough.
Cough suppressants can be used to help relieve the coughing that is associated with kennel cough. However, it is important to note that cough suppressants should not be used in dogs that have difficulty breathing. If your dog is having difficulty breathing, it is important to take them to the veterinarian immediately.
In addition to antibiotics and cough suppressants, your veterinarian may also recommend other treatments for your dog's kennel cough, such as rest, fluids, and a humidifier. Rest can help your dog's immune system fight the infection, while fluids can help to keep your dog hydrated and prevent dehydration. A humidifier can help to soothe your dog's throat and make it easier for them to breathe.
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it is rarely fatal. With proper treatment, most dogs recover completely within a few weeks.
Rarely fatal
Kennel cough is rarely fatal, but it can be a serious illness, especially for puppies and older dogs. Puppies and older dogs have weaker immune systems, which makes them more susceptible to developing complications from kennel cough.
The most common complication of kennel cough is pneumonia. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Pneumonia can be a serious illness, and it can be fatal in some cases.
Other complications of kennel cough can include bronchitis, sinusitis, and middle ear infections. These complications are typically not fatal, but they can be very uncomfortable for dogs.
In most cases, kennel cough is not fatal. However, it is important to take your dog to the veterinarian if they are showing any signs of kennel cough, especially if they are a puppy or an older dog. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.
The best way to protect your dog from kennel cough is to vaccinate them. The kennel cough vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can help to reduce the risk of infection by up to 95%.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about kennel cough:
Question 1: What is kennel cough?
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It is caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses.
Question 2: How is kennel cough spread?
Kennel cough is spread through the air, through direct contact with an infected dog, or through contact with contaminated objects.
Question 3: What are the symptoms of kennel cough?
The most common symptom of kennel cough is a hacking cough. Other symptoms can include sneezing, fever, and lethargy.
Question 4: Is kennel cough serious?
Kennel cough is rarely fatal, but it can be a serious illness, especially for puppies and older dogs.
Question 5: How is kennel cough treated?
Kennel cough is typically treated with antibiotics and cough suppressants.
Question 6: Can kennel cough be prevented?
The best way to prevent kennel cough is to vaccinate your dog.
Question 7: What should I do if my dog has kennel cough?
If your dog is showing any signs of kennel cough, it is important to take them to the veterinarian right away.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it is rarely fatal. With proper treatment, most dogs recover completely within a few weeks. The best way to protect your dog from kennel cough is to vaccinate them.
Here are some tips to help prevent kennel cough in your dog:
Tips
Here are some tips to help prevent kennel cough in your dog:
Tip 1: Vaccinate your dog.
The best way to prevent kennel cough is to vaccinate your dog. The kennel cough vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can help to reduce the risk of infection by up to 95%.
Tip 2: Avoid contact with infected dogs.
If your dog is not vaccinated against kennel cough, it is important to avoid contact with infected dogs. This means keeping your dog away from kennels, shelters, and other places where dogs congregate.
Tip 3: Wash your hands after handling an infected dog.
If you come into contact with an infected dog, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This will help to prevent you from spreading the virus to your dog.
Tip 4: Keep your dog's environment clean.
Keeping your dog's environment clean can help to reduce the risk of infection. This means regularly cleaning your dog's food and water bowls, toys, and bedding.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
By following these tips, you can help to protect your dog from kennel cough. Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it is rarely fatal. With proper treatment, most dogs recover completely within a few weeks.
If your dog is showing any signs of kennel cough, it is important to take them to the veterinarian right away.
Conclusion
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It is caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses, and it can be spread through the air, through direct contact with an infected dog, or through contact with contaminated objects.
The most common symptom of kennel cough is a hacking cough. Other symptoms can include sneezing, fever, and lethargy. Kennel cough is rarely fatal, but it can be a serious illness, especially for puppies and older dogs.
The best way to prevent kennel cough is to vaccinate your dog. The kennel cough vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can help to reduce the risk of infection by up to 95%.
If your dog is showing any signs of kennel cough, it is important to take them to the veterinarian right away. Kennel cough is typically treated with antibiotics and cough suppressants.
Closing Message:
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection in dogs, but it is rarely fatal. With proper treatment, most dogs recover completely within a few weeks. The best way to protect your dog from kennel cough is to vaccinate them.