KENNEL COUGH
KENNEL COUGH
Kennel cough is an infectious respiratory disease in dogs that produces quite a distinct hacking cough . It can also sound a bit like a “ goose honk ”. In some cases , dogs can exhibit only mild symptoms for a short duration , however it can progress to pneumonia which can be life threatening .
There are several organisms that can cause kennel cough , and quite commonly there is a combination causing the disease . The most common agents are the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria , the parainfluenza virus and the adenovirus type 2 . The infection is spread usually by direct contact with other infected dog ’ s saliva or oro-nasal secretions . Often the problem is that an infected dog is usually contagious before showing any clinical signs .
All dogs are susceptible to infections ; however , it is more commonly seen in puppies that are 6 weeks to 6 months of age . Usually there is also a history of exposure to either kennels , boarding or doggy day-cares where there is a highdensity population of dogs .
Symptoms Mild form : Usually dogs with mild kennel cough have a soft , moist cough that persists for 10-20 days . Sometimes they can also be lethargic , have reduced appetite and a fever . Some
dogs will develop the traditional dry hacking cough seen with the Bordetella bronchiseptica / parainfluenza virus complex . They can also develop discharge from the eyes and nose , sometimes yellow if there is secondary bacterial infections . Often times after coughing they may bring up a white foamy mucus , which can be worse after exercise . Severe form : Dogs that develop severe forms of kennel cough usually have a high temperature and show clinical signs of pneumonia , such as increased breathing rates and effort .
Diagnosis Kennel cough is usually diagnosed based on a history of exposure to other dogs , checking vaccination status and looking at the clinical symptoms . In more severe cases your vet may consider doing bloodwork and X-rays to rule out secondary infections and other problems . Please note , if you think your dog has the symptoms of kennel cough and you are going to take them to the vets , make sure you inform the receptionist before your arrival and wait with your dog in the car . This helps reduce transmission to other dogs in the clinic .
Management and treatment Most cases are treated as out-patients ; it is important to isolate your dog from others for at least two weeks as it is highly contagious .
Medications Broad spectrum antibiotics are usually indicated in uncomplicated cases . In more severe cases often combination therapy is required . Cough suppressants can often be used to help your dog feel more comfortable .
Supplements It ’ s always helpful to give your dog some extra help during periods of sickness . High doses of vitamin C and a good multivitamin can help boost the immune system . It ’ s also important to ensure good gut health and bacteria after antibiotic use with a good probiotic supplement .
Nutrition It ’ s really important to feed your dog nourishing and healthy foods during any time of sickness , and if there is a reduced appetite then talk to your vet about special hospital foods that are high in calories and nutrients .
Exercise It is recommended that your dog is rested while infected with kennel cough . This will allow the body the time it needs to fight off the infection .
Prevention and control There are vaccinations available for kennel cough and most puppies will have this vaccine as part of their primary course . The vaccines , however , are considered “ non-core ” by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association . This means that the need for vaccination should be determined on the basis of geographical and lifestyle exposure risks of the individual dog . It is worth having a chat to your regular vet to see if the kennel cough vaccine is right for you . However , if your dog goes into kennels or doggy daycare then it ’ s likely to be compulsory . There are two types of vaccines currently available , one that goes under the skin , and an intra-nasal vaccine that goes into the nostrils . If your puppy has the one under the skin , they will need two vaccinations and then yearly boosters . If your puppy has the intranasal vaccine they will only require one puppy vaccination , followed by yearly boosters .
Dr . Rebecca Penman Director / Veterinarian Tel . 021 145 5283 www . vetpost . co . nz PO Box 9450 , Tauranga Bay of Plenty , New Zealand