Download kennel cough - Donnington Grove

24-­‐hour Emergency Service 01635 47170 Kennel Cough
(Infectious Tracheobronchitis)
Infectious Tracheobronchitis is the proper name for the extremely common contagious
upper respiratory infection commonly known as ‘Kennel Cough”. In many ways, this is the
dog’s equivalent of the ‘common cold’.
What Causes Kennel Cough?
Much the same as the common cold, there are actually a range of infections that cause
very similar signs. We know that the viruses Canine Adenovirus 2 and a Parainfluenza
Virus can cause the disease, as can the bacteria Bordatella bronchiseptica. Other
organisms may be involved that we know less about.
How is it Spread?
It doesn’t have to be caught in kennels, but these are great places for it to spread. It may
be caught anywhere dogs mix or visit the same areas.
Much the same as the common cold, Kennel Cough is spread by moisture droplets
containing the infectious agent which enter through the nose or mouth. Being in the same
airspace, especially in a confined area, is probably the main route of infection, bit it can
also be passed on hands, clothing, water bowls, food bowls and other surfaces that a dog
may sniff or lick which an infected dog may have contacted or coughed on.
The infectious agents are killed by drying out, so they spread best in damp conditions and
probably do not survive long on clothing.
What Signs Does it Cause?
There is an incubation period before signs show of 7-10 days.
The main sign is coughing. This is a dry cough often followed by a retch as if trying to
bring something up. Coughing will occur at any time but is often brought on by exercise or
excitement. Pulling on a lead will typically trigger it as will a pinch of the dog’s windpipe.
Otherwise the dog is usually very bright with no change in appetite.
Kennel Cough is often mistaken for a dog having something caught in its throat. In fact, it
sounds more like people imagine having something caught in throat sounds like than a
dog that actually has something caught in it’s throat. A dog with something caught in the
throat is usually dull, may retch and will not eat.
The cough lasts for 2 weeks on average.
Treatment
The vast majority of dogs will throw the infection off with no treatment. Only the very
young, those with compromised immune systems or with pre-existing respiratory disease
are likely to develop more serious disease (pneumonia).
Many cases may be viral, but antibiotics can kill the bacteria involved. There is no good
evidence that this actually reduces the course of disease, but may be advisable if there
are other concerns about your dog’s health.
Cough suppressants are useful if the cough causes distress. Benylin (Non-Drowsy) Cough
Mixture may be used in dogs, treating them as a child of equivalent size.
If the cough lasts much more than 2 weeks, you should check with your vet.
Prevention
Avoid contact with infected dogs or dogs that have recently (in the last 2 weeks) been in
kennels. If your dog is infected, don’t go out with it until it is better if you can avoid it.
If you contact a potentially infected dog, wash your hands. The infectious agents are
readily killed by normal detergents. To be completely safe, wash your clothes too.
Don’t allow sharing of food & water bowls.
Vaccination
The normal routine vaccinations contain Canine Adenovirus 2 and Parainfluenza. This is
sufficient for most dogs.
An additional vaccine is available for Bordatella that goes up the nose. It also contain the
Parainfluenza virus. This may be useful for dogs going into kennels or going to dog clubs
and shows. Some establishments will insist on this before allowing dogs in.