Kennel cough, known medically as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a disease in dogs characterized by the presence of a dry or harsh cough. It results from an infection of the dog’s respiratory system, resulting in inflammation. Kennel cough is named as such because the disease can spread rapidly from one dog to another, especially when they live in the same quarters, such as in a kennel.
Commonly, kennel cough presents as coughing, which may be associated with gagging or retching. In certain occasions, the cough can also be accompanied by fever. Severe cases of kennel cough, which is usually seen in young puppies who have not yet been vaccinated, can present as lethargy and lack of appetite.
Kennel cough can be caused by both viruses and bacteria. Common agents that cause the disease include the parainfluenza virus, mycoplasma and bordetella. Most of the time, kennel cough is caused by more than one kind of organism. These organisms can be spread through the air and via both direct and indirect contact with contaminated material.
Certain factors may make the dog more susceptible to acquiring the disease. These include stress and temperature extremes, to name a few.
Kennel cough is diagnosed based on the signs and symptoms of the disease that occur approximately 1 week after the dog is exposed to another infected dog. The diagnosis of kennel cough becomes more certain when the dog has a history of exposure to other dogs recently, especially if the dogs remain in close confinement. Examples of this include dogs that are staying in hospitals or animal shelters, and during dog shows. Although usually not necessary, bacterial culture and other laboratory examinations can be performed to ascertain the diagnosis of kennel cough.
In general, kennel cough is a mild condition, usually resolving spontaneously; however, it can become a serious illness in certain situations, especially if it remains untreated. Occasionally, the kennel cough can progress to more severe consequences, such as bronchitis in older dogs or pneumonia in puppies. These consequences can occasionally be fatal.
Mild cases of kennel cough typically resolve on its own. Supportive treatment, such as good nutrition and proper hygiene, is typically instituted. While your dog is recovering from the disease, it is best to keep him isolated from other dogs for a couple of weeks. By doing this, the spread of the disease can be minimized. You can opt to give your dog cough suppressants to control the coughing. You may also give bronchodilators to relieve any difficulty of breathing. Some veterinarians also give corticosteroids to minimize the inflammation and other symptoms of kennel cough.
For more severe cases of kennel cough, antibiotics may be given to treat the bacterial infection. Bronchodilators may be given as well. For more severe cases, it is also prudent to consult your veterinarian, as the disease may progress if not treated promptly and appropriately.
One of the most important aspects in the management of the said disease is prevention. Immunizing the dog against the common agents of kennel cough, such as canine adenovirus, parainfluenza and distemper, can help prevent your dog from getting infected with the disease.
In general, there are two routes for administration of the kennel cough vaccine: intranasal and injectable. Both the intranasal and injectable forms of the vaccine may not be able to protect the dog from acquiring the disease completely, but can help decrease the severity of the illness. Both routes are initially given to the dog as a puppy, and both have to be given as a booster annually.
The intranasal route provides local immunity to the dog, and specifically protects the site of the infection. Giving intranasal vaccine significantly reduces the signs and symptoms of the illness. When giving intranasal vaccine, keep in mind that it takes approximately 4 days before the dog is able to develop protection from the disease; thus, it is important to give at least 4 days before exposing your dog to other dogs that may harbor the disease, such as in dog shows.
On the other hand, the injectable route provides systemic immunity to the dog. The injectable form of the vaccine is advocated for more aggressive dogs.
Aside from immunization, it is also important to keep your dog away from agents of the disease. It is important to disinfect cages or kennels, especially where infected dogs have stayed in. Also, it is necessary that kennels are provided with adequate ventilation. Dog handlers should also employ proper handwashing techniques to avoid spreading the disease.
