Kennel Cough
Infectious Tracheobronchitis in Dogs

General Information

Kennel Cough is more technically known as Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis. This term localizes the most common clinical sign, coughing, to the trachea (wind pipe) and bronchi (within the lungs). The harsh, dry cough is often followed by gagging and coughing up foamy mucus. Otherwise, the patient appears alert and generally healthy.

Kennel Cough may be caused by several viruses and bacteria. These include the adenovirus type-2 virus, the parainfluenza virus, and the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica. The disease spreads rapidly from one dog to another in close quarters, such as a boarding kennel. This is the origin of its name. It does not affect people. Signs appear in 3 to 10 days after the dog contracts the disease. Vaccines are available to protect against kennel cough.

Important Points in Treatment

  1. There is no specific treatment for the viruses involved. No drug will kill them, so they must run their course, which may take 2-3 weeks. Antibiotics are useful against the bacteria involved, although some resistance to some antibiotics has occurred. Cough suppressants are used to break the self-perpetuating cycle of coughing that occurs.
  2. Diet: Ordinarily no special diet is required.
  3. Activity: Exercise stimulates coughing and should be severely restricted. Sudden changes in air temperature of pressure on the neck from collars and leashes may also stimulate coughing.
  4. Medication: Give all medication as directed. Call the doctor if you are unable to do so.

Notify the Doctor is Any of the Following Occur

  • Your dog's cough persists or worsens
  • Your dog becomes depressed
  • Your dog loses weight

How can I prevent this disease?

Most vaccination programs include a vaccine against the parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica. These should be administered to puppies and boostered in adults.

How effective are these vaccines?

Immunity after natural infection with respiratory viruses, like parainfluenza or bacteria like Bordetella, is neither solid nor long lasting. We cannot expect vaccines to be much better. Therefore, a booster 1-3 weeks before placing your dog in a boarding kennel is good insurance against disease.


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