What Is Dog Kennel Cough
Dog kennel cough is a contagious respiratory disease that can affect dogs of all ages. It is caused by a virus called Bordetella bronchiseptica, which the dog can get by coming into contact with infected animals or people.
Symptoms of the disease include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, fever and loss of appetite. These symptoms usually last for 2 to 4 weeks and are not usually serious in healthy dogs. However, it can be fatal in young puppies or elderly dogs with other health problems.
How do you know if your dog has kennel cough?
The primary symptom of kennel cough is a non-productive and persistent dry cough. It usually sounds like a goose honk or as if something is stuck in your dog’s throat. Runny nose, sneezing, lack of energy, decreased appetite, and mild fever are other symptoms.[1]
How do you treat a dog with kennel cough?
How Is Kennel Cough Treated? Typically, mild cases of kennel cough are treated with a week or two of rest, but a veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to prevent a secondary infection and cough medication to ease the symptoms.[2]
Does kennel cough go away on its own?
Kennel cough can usually go away on its own – most cases will clear up within three weeks and shouldn’t need any treatment at all. If your dog seems otherwise perky and is eating well, you should be able to use home remedies to make your dog more comfortable.[3]
What causes kennel cough in dogs?
Causes of Kennel Cough Kennel cough can be caused by a number of different airborne bacteria (such as Bordetella bronchiseptica) and viruses (such as canine parainfluenza) or a mycoplasma (an organism somewhere between a virus and a bacteria).[4]
What is the fastest way to cure kennel cough?
Adequate rest is one of the best remedies for kennel cough. If your dog gets plenty of sleep, it will give his body a chance to fight the virus and recover properly. Put your dog in a room by himself, away from kids and other pets. This way, he will not be disturbed while trying to rest.[5]
What happens if kennel cough is left untreated?
The infection is mild in most dogs, but some may develop pneumonia. Puppies and dogs of any age with compromised immune symptoms are more likely to develop pneumonia. In severe cases, kennel cough can cause death.[6]
What are the first symptoms of kennel cough?
The first signs of kennel cough The most distinctive symptom of kennel cough is a loud, hacking cough or retch. Other common symptoms are runny nose, eye discharge, and sneezing. In more severe cases, or if left untreated, kennel cough can cause decreased appetite, lethargy, depression, and fever.[7]
How long is kennel cough contagious?
How long is kennel cough contagious? In general, dogs who have kennel cough are no longer contagious after 10-14 days. This window can be shortened if antibiotics are used to treat the bacterial infection.[8]
How long does kennel cough last for?
most infections resolve within one to three weeks.” Some cases require prolonged treatment, but most infections resolve within one to three weeks. Mild clinical signs may linger for several weeks even when the bacteria have been eliminated.[9]
How contagious is kennel cough for dogs?
Kennel cough is highly contagious, but it’s usually treatable in healthy dogs. The infection can be life threatening only in puppies, older dogs, or immune-compromised dogs. The disease can spread through: Airborne droplets.[10]
Can a dog get kennel cough even if he is vaccinated?
Other bacteria and viruses, including the parainfluenza virus, can also cause kennel cough, which means that even vaccinated dogs can get kennel cough from another source. This is why it is important for owners to be aware of the symptoms of kennel cough, even if their dogs have had the Bordetella vaccine.[11]
Should you take dog to vet for kennel cough?
A dog with Kennel Cough usually recovers quickly without treatment, but it’s always best to visit your vet to make sure it’s Kennel Cough they’re suffering from, and not another condition.[12]
