Kennel Cough

What is Kennel Cough?
Tracheobronchitis, more commonly known as Kennel Cough, is a highly contagious canine disease that infects the upper respiratory system. This disease can be caused by viral infections such as canine distemper, canine adenovirus, canine parainfluenza virus, or canine respiratory coronavirus, or can be caused by bacterial infections such as Bordetella bronchiseptica. Kennel Cough is so named because the infection is spread quickly among dogs in close quarters, such as in kennels.
How is it transmitted?
Both the viral and bacterial causes of kennel cough are spread through the air by infected dogs as they sneeze and cough. The virus can also be transmitted through exposure with contaminated surfaces and objects. Exposure mainly occurs in environments where there are multiple dogs in close proximity, such as in pet store, animal shelters, boarding facilities, and grooming facilities.
What are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of Kennel Cough include a harsh, dry hacking or coughing, retching, sneezing, snorting, gagging, and discharge, either watery or thick, from the nose. Symptoms usually begin within 3-5 days after exposure and can last up to 20 days. Most often the dog will recover from these symptoms and medical prevention is unnecessary. However, because of the infection to the respiratory system, Kennel Cough can lead to a severe form of pneumonia.
Are treatments available for Kennel Cough?
Antibiotics are given to treat any bacterial infection present, and to prevent the development of pneumonia. Cough suppressants can be used if the cough is continuous through the night. It is not recommended to use cough suppressants unless the cough is continuous because the cough suppressants can decrease the productivity of the cough, not allowing the dog to cough up the phlegm lodged in the throat.
How do I prevent Kennel Cough?
Prevention is by vaccination with the Bordetella vaccination. Most kennels and groomers will not accept your pet unless there is proof of current vaccination. If you dog is being groomed or boarded on a regular basis, it is recommended that you update this vaccination every six months.