Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a common respiratory disease affecting dogs. It is highly contagious and can spread quickly among dogs in close proximity, such as in kennels, dog daycare centers, and dog parks. The disease is usually not serious, but it can be uncomfortable for dogs and, in rare cases, can lead to more severe complications. If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we will delve into what vets give for kennel cough, exploring the various treatment options and preventive measures.
Causes and Symptoms of Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, with the bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium being the most common culprit. The disease spreads through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets that contain the virus or bacteria. It can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. The symptoms of kennel cough typically include a harsh, dry cough, which can sound like a goose honk. Other symptoms may include:
- A runny nose
- Sneezing
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
In severe cases, dogs may develop pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.
Treatment Options for Kennel Cough
The treatment for kennel cough depends on the severity of the disease and the overall health of the dog. Mild cases may not require any specific treatment, as the disease can resolve on its own within a few weeks. However, to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications, vets often prescribe:
Anti-cough Medications
Vets may prescribe cough suppressants to reduce the frequency and severity of coughing. These medications can help make the dog more comfortable and reduce the risk of complications.
Antibiotics
If the kennel cough is caused by a bacterial infection, vets may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. However, antibiotics are not effective against viral infections, and their use should be judicious to minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.
Supportive Care
In addition to medication, supportive care plays a crucial role in treating kennel cough. This includes providing a warm, humid environment to help soothe the dog’s throat and lungs, ensuring the dog gets plenty of rest, and encouraging the dog to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Preventive Measures Against Kennel Cough
Prevention is key when it comes to kennel cough. Since the disease is highly contagious, it’s essential to take steps to reduce the risk of infection. Here are some preventive measures:
- Vaccination: Vaccines are available to protect against kennel cough. The most common vaccine is the bordetella vaccine, which can be given intranasally or through injection. While the vaccine is not 100% effective, it can significantly reduce the risk and severity of the disease.
- Minimizing Exposure: Avoid exposing your dog to other dogs that may be infected, especially in areas where dogs congregate, such as dog parks and kennels.
Home Care for Dogs with Kennel Cough
If your dog has been diagnosed with kennel cough, there are several things you can do at home to help manage the disease and prevent complications. These include:
Providing a quiet, stress-free environment to help your dog rest and recover. Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can help soothe your dog’s throat and lungs. Ensuring your dog has access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated. Avoiding exercising your dog too much, as this can exacerbate the cough and prolong recovery.
Conclusion
Kennel cough is a common and highly contagious disease that can affect dogs of all ages. While it is usually not serious, it can be uncomfortable for dogs and, in rare cases, can lead to more severe complications. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for kennel cough is essential for dog owners. By working closely with a veterinarian and taking preventive measures, you can help reduce the risk of kennel cough and ensure your dog stays healthy and happy. Remember, if you suspect your dog has kennel cough, it’s crucial to consult with a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right care and attention, your dog can recover from kennel cough and get back to their normal, playful self.
What is kennel cough and how does it affect dogs?
Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a common and highly contagious respiratory illness that affects dogs. It is caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza virus, and adenovirus. The disease gets its name from its tendency to spread quickly in areas where dogs are in close proximity, such as kennels, dog parks, and animal shelters. Kennel cough is characterized by a harsh, hacking cough, which can be accompanied by other symptoms such as sneezing, runny eyes, and a loss of appetite.
The good news is that kennel cough is typically a self-limiting disease, meaning that it will resolve on its own with time. However, in severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. To prevent the spread of kennel cough, dog owners should keep their pets up to date on vaccinations, avoid exposing them to infected dogs, and practice good hygiene. If a dog does contract kennel cough, it is essential to seek veterinary care to prevent the disease from progressing and to receive guidance on the best course of treatment.
What are the symptoms of kennel cough in dogs?
The symptoms of kennel cough can vary in severity, but the most common sign is a persistent, hacking cough. The cough can be dry and raspy, or it may produce mucus. Other symptoms may include sneezing, runny eyes, and a runny nose. In some cases, dogs may also experience a loss of appetite, lethargy, and a fever. It is essential to seek veterinary care if a dog’s symptoms worsen or if they show signs of difficulty breathing, such as rapid breathing or labored breathing.
A veterinarian will typically diagnosis kennel cough based on a physical examination, medical history, and clinical signs. They may also perform diagnostic tests, such as a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and chest radiographs, to rule out other conditions and to determine the severity of the disease. If a dog is diagnosed with kennel cough, the veterinarian will develop a treatment plan to help manage the symptoms and prevent complications. This may include antibiotics, cough suppressants, and supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and nutrition.
How do veterinarians diagnose kennel cough in dogs?
Diagnosing kennel cough in dogs typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. The veterinarian will start by asking questions about the dog’s symptoms, medical history, and vaccination status. They will then perform a physical examination, paying close attention to the dog’s respiratory system, including the lungs, trachea, and bronchi. The veterinarian may also use a stethoscope to listen to the dog’s heart and lungs, and to check for any abnormal sounds.
In addition to the physical examination, the veterinarian may also perform diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other conditions. These tests may include a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and chest radiographs. The veterinarian may also take a sample of the dog’s tracheal secretions or blood to test for the presence of infectious agents, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the veterinarian will develop a treatment plan to help manage the symptoms and prevent complications.
What are the treatment options for kennel cough in dogs?
The treatment options for kennel cough in dogs depend on the severity of the disease and the presence of any underlying health conditions. Mild cases of kennel cough may not require any treatment other than rest, hydration, and nutrition. However, in more severe cases, the veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to help manage the symptoms and prevent complications. Cough suppressants, such as cough medicines or anti-inflammatory medications, may also be prescribed to help relieve the dog’s discomfort.
In addition to medication, the veterinarian may also recommend supportive care, such as providing a warm, humid environment to help soothe the dog’s respiratory system. The dog should also be kept away from other dogs to prevent the spread of the disease. It is essential to follow the veterinarian’s treatment plan and to monitor the dog’s symptoms closely. If the symptoms worsen or if the dog shows signs of difficulty breathing, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care to prevent complications.
Can kennel cough be prevented in dogs?
Yes, kennel cough can be prevented in dogs through vaccination and good hygiene practices. The Bordetella vaccine is the most effective way to prevent kennel cough, and it is typically administered annually. The vaccine can be given intranasally or through an injection, and it helps to protect dogs against the most common causes of kennel cough. Dog owners should also practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands regularly, especially after handling dogs or their food and water bowls.
In addition to vaccination and good hygiene, dog owners can also take steps to reduce their dog’s risk of contracting kennel cough. This includes avoiding areas where dogs congregate, such as dog parks and animal shelters, and keeping their dog up to date on all vaccinations. Dog owners should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of kennel cough and seek veterinary care immediately if they suspect their dog has contracted the disease. By taking these precautions, dog owners can help protect their pets from kennel cough and prevent the spread of the disease.
How long does it take for dogs to recover from kennel cough?
The recovery time for dogs with kennel cough can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the presence of any underlying health conditions. Mild cases of kennel cough typically resolve on their own within 7-14 days, while more severe cases may take several weeks to recover. It is essential to follow the veterinarian’s treatment plan and to monitor the dog’s symptoms closely to ensure a full recovery.
In some cases, dogs may experience a lingering cough for several weeks after they have recovered from kennel cough. This is usually due to the fact that the trachea and bronchi take time to heal. To help manage the cough, the veterinarian may prescribe a cough suppressant or anti-inflammatory medication. It is also essential to provide the dog with plenty of rest, hydration, and nutrition to help them recover fully. With proper care and treatment, most dogs make a full recovery from kennel cough and can return to their normal activities.