Canine kennel cough is perhaps one of the most widely recognized terms for pet owners. It is loosely used to describe a range of infections, both viral and bacterial. These infections cause inflammation of a dog’s voice box and windpipe and are essentially a form of bronchitis that is comparable to a common chest cold in humans.
In most cases, kennel cough clears up on its own. However, it is highly contagious to other dogs and it is therefore important that it is treated as soon as possible. There are numerous ways dogs can catch kennel cough, including aerosols in the air, transfers from dog to dog and germs on contaminated objects.
Kennel cough is most commonly spread in small, enclosed areas that do not have great air circulation, such as an animal shelter or boarding center. Your dog can also catch it from simply sitting in a vaccination clinic, training class or grooming facility.
In order to better understand this disease and how you can protect your dog, it may be helpful to take a look at some of the most common symptoms as well as treatment options. If you have any questions about the listed information, please do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
Symptoms of Canine Kennel Cough
The most common signs of canine kennel cough are as follows:
- A persistent dry cough with a “honking” sound
- Your dog will appear healthy except for the cough; their appetite and activity level won’t change
- They may gag and cough up a white, foamy phlegm – especially after exercise
- Fever
- Nasal discharge
In severe cases of kennel cough, lethargy, a lack of appetite and pneumonia may occur.
Treatment Options for Canine Kennel Cough
In most cases, kennel cough is treatable. The best way to prevent kennel cough from affecting your dog is to do everything you can to avoid exposure. There are also vaccinations available for a handful of the agents that are known to cause kennel cough, including parainfluenza, bordetella and adenovirus-2. If you suspect your dog has been infected, it is important for you to contact your local vet to discuss the options for treatment.
Depending on the severity, your vet may either recommend for you to allow it to run its course or to do one or more of the following:
- Start antibiotics.
- Isolate your dog from other dogs.
- Using a humidifier or vaporizer may provide some relief.
- Bring your dog into the bathroom when you shower; the steam will provide some relief to their irritated throat.
- Avoid exposing them to cigarette smoke or other aggravating fumes.
- Ask your vet about using a doggy cough suppressant.
- Some dogs with kennel cough pull at their collar, so it may be helpful to replace it with a harness until the coughing stops.
Kennel cough usually only lasts about three weeks. However, if you notice the symptoms continuing after this point, be sure to notify your vet right away.
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