Kennel cough, or infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs, characterized by a hacking cough. The infection is most prevalent in kennels or other facilities that house multiple dogs. Several viruses and bacteria, alone or in combination, can cause the disease. The most common culprits are canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus 2, and the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria.
Risk factors and detection
If your dog visits a boarding kennel, grooming parlor, or training facility, or if he came from a pet shop or animal shelter, he may bring home kennel cough. Dogs with other respiratory conditions, such as chronic or allergic bronchitis, also are at higher risk for developing the condition.
Dogs suffering from a mild case of kennel cough typically exhibit only a dry, hacking cough, and they may cough up phlegm. These dogs are bright and alert and have a good appetite and normal temperature.
In more severe cases, a secondary bacterial infection can invade the lower respiratory tract, causing severe pneumonia. This form is more common in puppies, immunocompromised adults, and dogs with other respiratory conditions. Affected dogs have a low-grade fever, lose their appetites, and act lethargic. Many also have thick discharge from the nose and eyes and experience breathing difficulties.
To diagnose mild kennel cough, your veterinarian will ask if your dog recently spent time in a public place or around other dogs. Potential exposure coupled with a hacking cough usually is sufficient for diagnosis.
Veterinarians may use blood tests, microscopic examination and cultures of tracheobronchial secretions, and X-rays to diagnose severe kennel cough and determine its severity.
Prevention and treatment
Immunizing your dog is the best defense against kennel cough. Puppies can be immunized as early as 4 weeks old, and all dogs need annual boosters.
Limiting close exposure to other dogs also can help prevent infection.
If your dog develops a hacking cough, make an appointment to see the veterinarian, and isolate your dog from other family or neighborhood dogs to make sure the infection won’t spread.
In mild cases, the veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection and cough suppressants to control excessive coughing and prevent further transmission. Your dog also will need plenty of rest and fluids.
More severe cases often require stronger medication and possibly hospitalization, which may include antibiotics, fluid therapy, and bronchodilators and humidification to ease breathing.
Prognosis
Typically, dogs treated for mild kennel cough will recover within one to two weeks of starting treatment. In severe cases, most dogs will recover with early, aggressive treatment.
