The most common symptom of Kennel Cough is a dry hacking cough sometimes followed by retching. Many dog owners describe the cough as having a ‘honking sound.’ A watery nasal discharge may also be present. In mild cases of Kennel Cough, dogs continue to eat and are alert and active. In the more severe cases of Kennel Cough, the symptoms may progress and include lethargy, fever, no appetite, pneumonia, and in very severe cases, even death. The majority of severe cases of Kennel Cough occur in young unvaccinated puppies or dogs with weak immune systems. The Bordetella Vaccine has done much in the way of preventing Kennel Cough.
What is Kennel Cough?
‘Kennel Cough’ is the term that is used to describe a variety of infections to a dogs upper respiratory system. It’s a form of bronchitis and is similar to a chest cold in humans. In usually clears up on it’s own, but the fact that it’s highly contagious to other dogs means that it should be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian. The disease is found worldwide and will infect a very high percentage of dogs in their lifetime.
How can I recognize the symptoms of Kennel Cough?
Diagnosis is usually based on the symptoms and a history of recent exposure to other dogs– which is how the disease got its name. Dogs who spend substantial time in close quarters with other dogs (such as a kennel) are much more susceptible to the disease. Signs of infection occur three to four days after exposure, and can last around 10 days. However, after the infection has been resolved, your dog will still be infectious for 6 to 14 weeks and during that time needs to remain isolated from other dogs.
What to do if your dog has symptoms of Kennel Cough
First and foremost, make sure your dog is vaccinated because many of the agents that cause Kennel Cough can be prevented through vaccination. The Bordetella Vaccine is one of the most important vaccines in terms of preventing Kennel Cough.
If your dog has Kennel Cough, there are two ways to treat it, depending on the severity of the disease. The most common form of the disease is mild, similar to a human having the flu. If the dog has a good appetite and is alert, but only suffers from a constant cough, usually your vet will just allow the illness to run its course. Remember though, that your dog will still be a carrier for weeks. Sometimes prednisone is used to reduce the severity of the cough and your vet could prescribe cough suppressants as well.
In more severe (complicated) cases the dog could be exhibiting signs of pneumonia. Additionally he may not be eating or may be lethargic. In this case, the most common treatments start with antibiotics. Since Kennel Cough is an infectious disease which can get progressively worse, early diagnosis and treatment is vital– take your dog to your veterinarian if your dog has a cough for more than a few days.