Kennel Cough in Dogs
Canine infectious tracheobronchitis is a respiratory infection more commonly known as Kennel Cough. The bordetella bacteria, the most common cause of kennel cough, is airborne and highly contagious. This disease is easily spread through areas where many dogs are housed together – hence the name. Kennel cough is generally not a very serious condition and most dogs recover on their own without any treatment, just like people with a cold.
The main symptom of kennel cough is, of course, an intense “honking” cough. Some dogs suffer from additional cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose or sneezing and decreased energy levels. Like other respiratory infections, once the dog is compromised it is very easy for them to pick up secondary infections from viruses or other bacteria. If your dog has kennel cough it is best to keep them home away from other dogs so they do not spread the bacteria or pick up any other infections. Your veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics to help speed your dog’s recovery and cough medication to help ease symptoms. The infection usually clears up in less than 3 weeks. Vaccines are available, but not part of the standard core vaccines for dogs. If your dog spends a lot of time a doggy daycares or occasionally needs to stay at boarding facilities you may want to talk about bordetella vaccination with your vet.