Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease that goes by a number of different names including infectious canine cough, infectious respiratory disease and bordetellosis. It is very common, occurring throughout the world and affecting all breeds of dogs.
The disease derives its name because it commonly occurs where dogs are kept close together, for example in kennels, dog shelters or at dog shows. However, the infectious nature of the disease means even dogs kept apart from others may be at risk. It is similar in nature to a cold in humans. A single infected dog coughing is all it takes for the virus to become airborne. After that it spreads very rapidly to any dog in the immediate vicinity.
The virus attacks the dog’s windpipe and upper bronchi, although the dog will show little or no obvious signs of being ill. The most obvious symptom is a dry hacking cough that has been described as sounding like a “honking goose”.
This often panics dog-owners, but actually most cases of kennel cough are nothing to be concerned about. The dog’s overall health will generally be fine, with only the persistent coughing indicating that anything is amiss.The real danger is that, untreated, kennel cough infections can develop into pneumonia, which can potentially be life threatening. For this reason, it is important to refer any instance of kennel cough to your vet, no matter how mild it may seem to you.
After examining the dog, the vet may decide to prescribe antibiotics for your dog. If the vet decides that the infection is minor he may decide not to treat it at all. He will, however, ask you to keep a close eye on your dog and to report any worsening in his condition.
It may sound obvious, but the best way to prevent your dog getting kennel cough is to avoid exposure to dogs that you don’t know. This includes while you are out walking your dog or at the dog park. And it applies double while your dog is still a puppy and his immune system is still not fully developed.
Be sure to also quiz the owner of any kennel or doggy day care your dog spends time at, although these facilities normally have strict rules and insist on proof of vaccination before they accept a dog.
Even if your dog is never likely to be kenneled, vaccination against kennel cough is an absolute must. Your vet will normally include this in the annual 5 in 1 shot, but for further peace of mind ask him about it, to make sure.
Of itself, kennel cough is not a threat to a healthy adult dog, but you need to be aware of the dangers of secondary infection and take appropriate action.
Learn more about kennel cough, dog training, dog health and other useful dog information at dogsanddogtraining.com.
