30 Oct What is Kennel Cough in Dogs and How to Prevent It?

Kennel cough in dogs, much like a cold in humans, is a highly infectious respiratory condition in dogs. Often experienced after staying in kennels or interacting with many other dogs, kennel cough affects the trachea and bronchial tubes. While it usually isn’t severe, kennel cough can still be uncomfortable and sometimes even lead to complications. The good news? With some knowledge and prevention strategies, you can significantly reduce your dog’s risk of contracting kennel cough.

Understanding Kennel Cough in Dogs

The primary cause of kennel cough is exposure to bacteria and viruses in environments shared by multiple dogs. Though the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria is the leading culprit, various viruses, including canine parainfluenza and adenovirus, can also play a role. When dogs inhale these infectious agents, they settle in the respiratory tract, causing inflammation of the lining and resulting in a persistent cough.

Causes of Kennel Cough in Dogs

Kennel cough arises from various bacteria and viruses that attack the respiratory system. The main pathogens responsible include:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica: The primary bacteria causing infection.
• Canine adenovirus.
• Canine parainfluenza virus.
• Canine distemper virus.

Most dogs contract kennel cough by inhaling these pathogens, which are airborne or transmitted via shared surfaces like food bowls or bedding in places where dogs are in close quarters.

Common Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Dogs

Identifying the symptoms of kennel cough is the first step in securing timely treatment. Signs of kennel cough can include:

• A persistent, dry cough that sounds like honking.
• Sneezing or a runny nose.
• Low energy and lethargy.
• Loss of appetite in severe cases.
• Occasional fever or watery eyes.

Diagnosing Kennel Cough in Dogs

If you suspect kennel cough, a veterinarian visit is crucial for diagnosis. Veterinarians typically diagnose kennel cough based on clinical signs and the dog’s history, mainly if it has recently stayed in a kennel or other high-density area. In some cases, further tests like chest X-rays or blood tests are required to rule out other respiratory infections.

How Does Kennel Cough Spread?

Kennel cough spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected dog sneezes or coughs. The infectious agents linger in the air and are easily inhaled by other dogs. Additionally, shared items such as food bowls, toys, and bedding can facilitate transmission. Due to the ease of spread, dogs in group settings are highly susceptible.

Kennel Cough’s Effect on Canine Health

For most healthy dogs, kennel cough is a mild illness with manageable symptoms. However, young puppies, older dogs, or dogs with compromised immune systems may experience more severe cases, with symptoms that could potentially lead to pneumonia or other complications if left untreated.

Why Are Some Dogs More Prone to Kennel Cough?

Age, health, immune system strength, and exposure level determine a dog’s risk of contracting kennel cough. Puppies and senior dogs tend to have weaker immune defences, making them more vulnerable. Additionally, dogs with other underlying health conditions, such as respiratory or heart issues, are at a higher risk.

High-Risk Environments for Kennel Cough

Any environment where dogs are in close quarters is a high risk for kennel cough. This includes:

• Dog daycare facilities and kennels.
• Dog parks or large outdoor gatherings.
• Training classes with multiple dogs.
• Grooming salons and veterinary offices.

The Role of Vaccination in Prevention

One of the best prevention strategies against kennel cough is vaccination. The Bordetella vaccine, given orally, intranasally, or via injection, helps bolster a dog’s immunity against the primary bacteria responsible for kennel cough. While the vaccine doesn’t completely prevent kennel cough, it significantly reduces the severity of symptoms and risk of infection.

Read More About Dogs’ Vaccination:

Everything About Dog Vaccinations (part 1)

Everything About Dog Vaccinations (part 2)

At-home care for Dogs with Kennel Cough

Once kennel cough is diagnosed, supportive at-home care can aid your dog’s recovery. Ensure they rest, have access to fresh water, and stay in a comfortable, stress-free environment. A humidifier can help relieve throat irritation, and using a harness instead of a collar can reduce tracheal stress.

When to See the Vet for Kennel Cough

While mild cases of kennel cough resolve on their own, a veterinarian should assess more severe symptoms. If your dog has trouble breathing, refuses food, or shows signs of lethargy and fever, seek veterinary care immediately. In these cases, antibiotics or other medications may be required to prevent complications.

How Long Does Kennel Cough Last?

In mild cases, kennel cough symptoms generally last 1-3 weeks, though recovery time can vary depending on the dog’s immune system. Severe cases may take longer, requiring ongoing veterinary care and management to ensure full recovery.

Is Kennel Cough Fatal? Understanding Risks

Though kennel cough is rarely fatal, it can lead to severe complications in dogs with weakened immune systems, potentially resulting in pneumonia. Puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with pre-existing health issues are at the highest risk, emphasizing the need for preventive care and prompt treatment if symptoms arise.

Treatment Options for Kennel Cough

Treatment varies based on severity. Mild cases may only need rest and isolation, while more severe cases might require antibiotics, cough suppressants, or anti-inflammatory medications. When pneumonia develops, hospitalization and more intensive treatment are often necessary.

The Importance of Good Hygiene for Prevention

Keeping shared spaces and items clean is critical to preventing kennel cough. Regularly disinfect bowls, toys, and bedding, especially in multi-dog environments, to reduce the spread of pathogens. Encourage hand-washing after handling other dogs or shared items to minimize cross-contamination.

FAQs on Kennel Cough in Dogs

• What is kennel cough, and how does it spread?

Kennel cough is a respiratory infection in dogs spread through airborne bacteria and viruses, typically in areas where dogs congregate.

• Can vaccinated dogs still get kennel cough?

Vaccination dramatically reduces the risk and severity, but it doesn’t completely prevent the illness.

• How long should I quarantine my dog if it has kennel cough?

Quarantine for at least 10-14 days or until symptoms fully resolve to prevent spreading the illness to other dogs.

• Is kennel cough dangerous to humans?

Kennel cough is generally not contagious to humans, though individuals with compromised immune systems should exercise caution.

• What should I do if my dog shows kennel cough symptoms?

If your dog displays a persistent cough, visit a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and potential treatment.

• How effective is the Bordetella vaccine in preventing kennel cough?

The Bordetella vaccine significantly reduces the risk of infection, though it doesn’t guarantee complete immunity.

Conclusion and Final Tips for Kennel Cough Prevention

Kennel cough, though typical, is preventable with proper care, hygiene, and vaccination. You can ensure your dog stays healthy and safe by understanding the symptoms, maintaining a clean environment, and consulting with your veterinarian for preventive vaccinations. If your dog does contract kennel cough, prompt attention, isolation, and supportive care are critical to a swift recovery.