Dogs
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough or tracheobronchitis is a highly contagious
canine illness
characterized by inflammation of the upper
respiratory system. It can be caused by viral infections such as
canine distemper, canine
adenovirus,
or canine
parainfluenza virus, or bacterial infections such as
Bordetella
bronchiseptica. It is so named because the infection can spread
quickly among dogs, such as in the close quarters of a kennel.
Infection
Both viral and
bacterial causes of
kennel cough are spread through the air by infected dogs sneezing and coughing.
It can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces and through direct
contact. It is highly contagious. Exposure occurs in environments where there
are other dogs in close proximity, such as kennels, dog shows, and groomers.
Symptoms begin usually 3 to 5 days after exposure. The disease can progress to
pneumonia.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include a harsh, dry
cough, retching, or gagging,
especially in response to light pressing of the
trachea. The presence of
a fever varies from case to
case. The disease can last from 10-20 days. Diagnosis is made by seeing these
symptoms and having a history of exposure.
Treatment and prevention
Antibiotics are
given to treat any
bacterial infection present.
Cough
suppressants are used if the cough is not productive (nothing is being
coughed up). The prognosis is good. Prevention is by
vaccinating for
canine adenovirus, distemper, parainfluenza, and
Bordetella. In
kennels, the best prevention is to keep all the cages disinfected.
References
- Ettinger, Stephen J.;Feldman, Edward C.(1995).Textbook of Veterinary
Internal Medicine(4th ed.). W.B. Saunders Company.
ISBN 0-7216-6795-3
External link
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