Dog kennel cough, how to solve the problem

Dog kennel cough

As a dog owner, you want the best for your furry friend. One aspect of that is ensuring that they stay healthy and protected from various diseases and infections. One such condition that is common among dogs is kennel cough. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about kennel cough, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. The medical term for kennel cough is "canine infectious tracheobronchitis." It is called kennel cough because it spreads quickly among dogs who are housed together in close quarters, such as in a kennel or a dog daycare. However, kennel cough can also be contracted by dogs who have close contact with infected dogs, such as at a park or on a walk.

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Causes of Kennel Cough:

Kennel cough is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses. The most common causative agents are Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza virus. In some cases, other viruses and bacteria, such as adenovirus, mycoplasma, or reovirus, may also play a role in causing kennel cough.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough:

The most common symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, hacking cough that sounds like a goose honk. The cough may be accompanied by gagging, retching, or coughing up clear or yellow mucus. Other symptoms of kennel cough may include runny nose, sneezing, fever, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, dogs with kennel cough may have difficulty breathing and may develop pneumonia.

Diagnosis of Kennel Cough:

Your veterinarian can diagnose kennel cough by listening to your dog's chest and examining their throat. In some cases, a chest x-ray may be necessary to determine if the dog has developed pneumonia. Your veterinarian may also perform a physical examination, including checking the dog's lymph nodes and respiratory system, to determine if there is any swelling or fluid accumulation.

Treatment of Kennel Cough:

The treatment of kennel cough depends on the severity of the infection and the underlying cause. Mild cases of kennel cough may resolve on their own, and your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection. In more severe cases, your dog may need to be hospitalized for intravenous fluids and antibiotics. In rare cases, dogs with kennel cough may need to be treated with oxygen therapy.

Prevention of Kennel Cough:

The best way to prevent kennel cough is to ensure that your dog is up-to-date on their vaccinations. A vaccine for kennel cough is available, and your veterinarian can help you determine if your dog needs it based on their individual risk factors. Additionally, it is important to minimize your dog's exposure to other dogs who may be infected, such as at dog parks or dog daycares. If your dog must be housed in close quarters with other dogs, such as at a boarding kennel, be sure to choose one that requires proof of vaccinations and practices good hygiene to minimize the risk of infection.

Conclusion:

dog kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs, especially those housed in kennels or other group settings. While it is not life-threatening in most cases, it can cause severe discomfort and even lead to secondary infections. To prevent the spread of kennel cough, it is important to keep your dog's immune system strong, to ensure that they receive all necessary vaccines, and to minimize exposure to other dogs that may be infected. If your dog does develop kennel cough, it is important to seek veterinary care promptly to help them recover and prevent the spread of the infection to other dogs. Overall, it is always best to take proactive steps to prevent the spread of kennel cough and keep your dog healthy and happy.