Why the sudden discussion of Kennel Cough?
I chose this topic of discussion because as you are preparing to travel this summer, whether you plan to bring your dog(s) with you on vacation, board them, or take them to the groomers it is imperative that they be current on their vaccinations. The most common infectious illness is “kennel cough”. The label “kennel cough” is a widely used term. It is also known, however, as tracheobronchitis, canine infectious tracheobronchitis, Bordetallosis, or Bordetella.
What is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough is a combination of viral as well as bacterial infections that cause inflammation of the throat and voice box. It is a form of bronchitis and is similar to the common chest cold in humans. It is attributed to a number of infectious agents, but the most common viral agent is parainfluenza. Your dog(s) should be protected against this virus in the DA2PP (Distemper) combination vaccine, however when the bacterial agent is added it becomes more complicated. The most common bacterial agent is Bordatella b. This is the component we vaccinate for in the intranasal Bordatella vaccine. When these two components (bacterial and viral) meet the result is infectious tracheobronchitis which can unfortunately last 14-20 days.
How is Kennel Cough spread?
Kennel cough can take a number of different modes of transportation. It can spread via aerosols, direct dog-to-dog contact, as well as shared toys or water sources. Areas of poor circulation, a common fault in boarding facilities and shelters can be prime real-estate for this disease. Contact with other dogs at the park or a social setting tend to also be common areas for contracting the disease. Almost all boarding facilities require your dog(s) to be vaccinated for Bordetella and Distemper. If they do not require these vaccines to board then you should seriously consider another facility that does follow safe protocols. Another tip to observe when choosing a boarding facility is that the area has excellent ventilation and individual boarding kennels. Let’s face it…since dogs greet each other by sniffing each other’s behind, personal space is usually not an issue, but it’s in their best interest that dog-to-dog direct contact is limited as much as possible.
How do I know my dog has kennel cough?
Because kennel cough is so prevalent, the clinical signs are a persistent dry, “honking” cough which sometimes is followed by retching. Even with the coughing, in most mild cases the animal will appear healthy with a regular appetite. Some dogs with a severe cough, after exercising or on the leash may cough up white and foamy phlegm. In more extreme cases symptoms may include lethargy, fever, poor appetite, and even death. Death is extremely rare and is usually seen in animals that are young and/or immunocompromised.
What do I do if my dog has Kennel Cough?
- The first and most important step is to isolate your dog. (Remember kennel cough is a very “social” disease and is easily transmitted)
- Contact your veterinarian! The earlier the vet is able to diagnose the easier it is to treat. Most vets are able to make a diagnosis by evaluating any history of recent exposure to other dogs. Vets are able to run diagnostic lab work to verify the presence of any infectious agents via a bacterial culture and blood work however, the symptoms are usually easily identified so lab work is not always necessary.
- If the clinical diagnosis is kennel cough it is always recommended to contact the owners whose pets were in direct contact (i.e. boarding facility, groomers, and training classes) to prevent further spread of the disease.
How do you treat for Kennel Cough?
If the clinical diagnosis is caused by bacterial and viral agents, cough suppressants in conjunction with antibiotics are usually prescribed. In some cases the veterinarian may recommend letting the cough run its course and support only with cough suppressants. Humidifiers and vaporizers are also very helpful in upper respiratory illnesses, but if you don’t have one in your home, you can allow them into the bathroom while you are in the shower and the steam will provide similar relief. If your dog tends to tug while on the leash maybe try a chest harness to avoid irritating their throat even further. Supportive care is the most important factor and you should always monitor their attitude and appetite.
How long does Kennel Cough last?
Kennel cough can take 3-4 days for clinical signs to show. In most mild cases (if treatment is given) symptoms should improve and disappear over a span of three weeks. In extreme cases with puppies, senior dogs, or immunosurpressed animals it may take six weeks or more to recover. Like many viruses the animal may continue to shed the virus even after symptoms have gone away and the animal appears to have fully recovered.
What Are Some Preventative Methods to Avoid Kennel Cough?
Ultimately the best method to protecting your dog is avoiding exposure to the disease (i.e. avoid direct contact with dogs that have unknown vaccine history). The next best method is vaccinating. If your dog is regularly vaccinated with the Distemper Combo they will have protection against Adenovirus and Parainfluenza. Unfortunetly nothing is 100% and there is still a chance your dog will contract the disease but the symptoms will not be as severe. So the Distemper vaccine should be completed as well as the Intranasal Bordetella vaccine. The Intranasal Bordetella is the best form(versus the injectable form) of the vaccine by causing localized immunity in the respiratory tract.Think of it as the bouncer at a club that will only let guest whom are on the list pass.
The Major Disclamer….
There is one major caution to be aware of in vaccinating your dog. By vaccinating we are eliciting an autoimmune response where the animal will create antibodies that it recognizes as the virus. It is not uncommon that after vaccinating, your dog will exhibit the same mild symptoms of the virus. The dog can shed the virus for up to 72 hours and it can take up to four days before your dog’s immune system will be fully protected. So the Number 1 RULE is to never vaccinate your dog the same day you are planning to board, groom, or be exposed to other dogs. Not only are you endangering your dog because they are not fully protected, but you may also cause other dogs to become infected. Please always plan ahead and have your dog vaccinated at least one week prior to exposure.
