Kennel cough in dogs
Kennel cough, as a dog owner, you have probably heard of it or maybe your dog has suffered from it. It is a harsh, hacking cough that many owners think is caused by something stuck in the dog's throat. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Kennel cough is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. Especially young dogs are at high risk of getting kennel cough, particularly if they frequent places with many other dogs. Kennel cough is highly contagious. Although kennel cough often sounds severe and unpleasant and owners worry a lot, this disease is not dangerous. In most cases, kennel cough in dogs resolves on its own.
The cause of kennel cough in dogs
Generally, kennel cough can be caused by the following viruses and bacteria: the Para-influenza virus, Adenovirus type, and especially the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium. Kennel cough spreads like a cold through the air and by contact between animals. In places where many dogs gather, such as kennels, dog-walking service vehicles, or dog parks, any infection spreads very quickly. Your dog can catch kennel cough not only in kennels but anywhere many dogs come together. Any dog that comes into contact with other dogs can contract this unpleasant cough.
The symptoms of kennel cough
Kennel cough is highly contagious. The disease spreads through coughing and the expulsion of mucus. An infected dog that no longer coughs can still infect other dogs! Some dogs only have a runny nose or inflamed eyes; these animals remain active and have a good appetite. Only with excessive excitement, for example during play, or if the collar is pulled during walks, can the dog start coughing severely, sometimes gagging or vomiting as a result. A few dogs may develop pneumonia as a result of kennel cough. However, the severity of the disease largely depends on the dog's immune system.
The treatment of kennel cough in dogs
Kennel cough is very contagious. It is therefore very important to keep your dog away from other dogs. Treatment of kennel cough in adult dogs with mild coughing symptoms without fever or lack of energy mainly involves rest. Normally, the dog fully recovers within about 10 to 14 days. It is advisable to contact the veterinarian if you suspect your dog has kennel cough. Do not go directly to the vet with your dog, as in the actual case of kennel cough, your dog could infect other animals in the waiting room. Consult the vet by phone to determine the best option. You will be advised whether it is wise to bring your dog in or if the vet will just prescribe something to reduce irritation of the throat lining. Additionally, there are other measures you can take to prevent unnecessary irritation of the airways:
- Give the dog enough rest, so avoid long walks.
- Feed the dog soft, easily digestible food.
- Use a harness to walk the dog so that no pressure is applied to the throat by the leash.
- Ensure the dog does not bark excessively or get overly excited.
- Make sure the space where the dog stays is not smoky, dusty, or poorly ventilated. Try to keep the area as draft-free as possible.
Preventing kennel cough
Nowadays, dogs can be vaccinated against this unpleasant infection. However, this does not guarantee that your loyal companion will not catch kennel cough. You can compare it to the flu vaccination in humans. Like our flu, kennel cough infection is caused by many different pathogens. Due to this wide variety of culprits, it is not possible to vaccinate against all possible variants. Therefore, dogs are vaccinated against the most common strains, namely the previously mentioned para-influenza virus and Bordetella bacterium.
When to consult the vet urgently?
If a puppy or an old, weak dog has kennel cough, it is recommended to contact the vet immediately. These dogs are more susceptible to developing severe pneumonia. The vet will then prescribe a course of antibiotics. Also contact the vet if the dog has a fever, is lethargic, and there is no improvement within a week. If you own, for example, an English Bulldog or Pug and suspect your dog has kennel cough, it is also important to consult the vet urgently, as these breeds have relatively short snouts. These dogs become short of breath more quickly and can suffer greatly from kennel cough.
