Overview of Kennel Cough in Dogs: Detection, Treatment, and Prevention

What is kennel cough?

Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It mainly occurs in dogs that have close contact with their peers, such as in kennels, animal shelters or at dog shows. The disease can be caused by various viruses and bacteria that infect the dog's upper respiratory tract.

Cause of infectious tracheobronchitis

It is a multifactorial disease that can be caused by various pathogens. Below you will learn more about the most common causes of kennel cough.

Viruses as the main trigger

Viruses are one of the main causes of kennel cough. In particular, the canine parainfluenza virus and the canine adenovirus are known to cause this disease. These viruses damage the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, making it easier for secondary bacterial infections to gain a foothold.

Bacterial infections

In addition to viruses, certain bacteria can also cause infectious tracheobronchitis. Bordetella bronchiseptica is one such bacterium that is often associated with the development of kennel cough. It can occur both alone and in association with viruses, which can increase the severity of the disease.

Environmental and stress factors

Stress, poor air quality, smoke, dust and cold temperatures can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to kennel cough. Overcrowding and inadequate hygiene in animal shelters or boarding kennels can also promote the spread of the disease.

Contact with infected animals

Transmission occurs primarily through direct contact with infected dogs or through ingestion of contaminated airborne particles. Places where many dogs come together, such as dog parks, veterinary clinics or dog boarding kennels, are therefore common sites of transmission of infectious tracheobronchitis.

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Detailed symptoms of kennel cough

Kennel cough in dogs presents with various, mostly clear symptoms. It is important to recognize these signs and act quickly to ensure the comfort and well-being of our four-legged friend.

Barking, spasmodic cough

The main and most noticeable symptom of infectious tracheobronchitis is a dry, barking and sometimes spasmodic cough. This cough can be intense and distressing, especially at night, which can be distressing for both the dog and the owner.

Gag reflex

A strong choking sensation can occur parallel to the cough. This can be particularly worse after eating or drinking and can lead to vomiting.

Nasal discharge and eye inflammation

Some dogs may develop clear to purulent nasal discharge and conjunctivitis with watery eyes. These symptoms may indicate that a secondary bacterial infection is present.

Difficulty breathing and fever

In severe cases of kennel cough, shortness of breath and fever may occur. These symptoms often indicate a complicated infection or additional pneumonia and require immediate veterinary attention.

Loss of appetite and lethargy

Dogs with infectious tracheobronchitis may lose their desire to eat and become lethargic. However, a balanced diet and adequate fluid intake are crucial for recovery.

Importance of early detection

Early detection and treatment of infectious tracheobronchitis can help reduce the duration and severity of the disease and minimize the risk of complications. veterinarian immediately and isolate the dog until recovery to minimize the risk of infection.

At what point does it become dangerous?

Severe symptoms and complications

Kennel cough can worsen and become dangerous if not treated in a timely manner or if accompanied by other infections. Here are some signs that the disease may have reached a more critical stage:

• Severe cough with expectoration of mucus
• Fever
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing
• Lethargy and extreme weakness
• Inflammation in the respiratory tract

lung infection

A particularly serious course of infectious tracheobronchitis can be pneumonia. It can occur when bacteria enter the lungs and cause an infection. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Chronic respiratory diseases

If left untreated, infectious tracheobronchitis can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, which can permanently affect the dog's quality of life.

Immunocompromised dogs

Dogs that already have weakened immune systems, whether due to illness, stress or age, are particularly at risk. In such dogs, kennel cough can progress more quickly and become more severe.

What you can do

If you notice your dog exhibiting one or more of these symptoms, see a veterinarian immediately. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help keep the disease at bay and avoid serious complications. It is also crucial to avoid contact with other dogs to prevent the disease from spreading.

It is always better to be safe and proactive to protect and ensure your dog's well-being.

How is the diagnosis made by the vet ?

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To begin, the veterinarian will take a detailed medical history to learn more about the dog's history and symptoms. Questions about activity, contact with other dogs, vaccination status and previous illnesses are common.

Clinical examination

The veterinarian will conduct a physical examination to assess the dog's overall health. In particular, the dog's heart, lungs and respiratory tract are checked. In a dog suffering from kennel cough, slight pressure on the trachea can trigger a coughing fit.

Smear and laboratory examination

In many cases, a swab of the dog's mucous membranes can be taken. This is then examined in the laboratory to identify the specific pathogens that caused the kennel cough. This can help determine the most appropriate treatment for the dog.

X-ray image

A chest x-ray may be taken to rule out or confirm other respiratory diseases such as pneumonia. This is especially important if the dog is showing more serious symptoms.

Antibiogram

An antibiogram may be helpful if bacterial infections are involved. It allows the veterinarian to check the sensitivity of bacteria to different antibiotics and thus select the most effective antibiotic.

Treatment plan

Based on the results of the diagnostics, the veterinarian will create an individual treatment plan to relieve the symptoms and effectively treat the condition. This plan may include rest, medication to relieve symptoms, and in some cases, antibiotics.

It is always advisable to see the vet as soon as possible if you suspect kennel cough to ensure a quick diagnosis and treatment so that your dog can be healthy and happy again soon!

Treating Kennel Cough

Treatment for infectious tracheobronchitis in dogs depends on the symptoms and severity of the disease. Here are some important steps and methods that can be used in treating kennel cough:

Medication

• Antibiotics: When kennel cough is caused by bacteria, antibiotics are often prescribed to combat the bacterial infection. Choosing the right antibiotic is often based on the results of an antibiogram.
• Cough medicine: Medications that relieve the urge to cough can be given to provide the dog with relief.
• Immune-boosting agents: In some cases, medications to strengthen the immune system can also be useful to support the healing process.

Sufficient rest

Rest is an important aspect of treatment. The dog should be in a calm, stress-free environment to promote recovery. Excessive physical activity and excitement should be avoided.

isolation

Since kennel cough is highly contagious, the sick dog should be isolated from other animals to prevent the disease from spreading. This is especially important in households with multiple dogs or other pets.

Good hygiene

The dog's environment should be kept clean and dust-free. Cleaning and disinfecting sleeping areas, feeding bowls and toys can help minimize the spread of pathogens.

Fresh air and humidity

Fresh, moist air can help moisten the respiratory tract and relieve the urge to cough. A humidifier can be useful in dry indoor environments.

Supportive therapy

Depending on the dog's condition, supportive therapy such as fluid and electrolyte administration may be necessary to support the dog's overall health.

Regular follow-up checks

Once treatment has begun, regular veterinary checks are important to monitor progress and adjust therapy if necessary.

Prevention of kennel cough

Preventing kennel cough through vaccination is an effective way to protect dogs from this contagious disease. Here are the key aspects of preventing kennel cough through vaccination:

Type of vaccination:

There are vaccines that protect against the most common kennel cough pathogens. These are usually offered as combination vaccines that protect against several pathogens at the same time.

Vaccination schedule:

• Basic immunization: Puppies should generally be given basic immunization between the 8th and 16th weeks of life in order to build up basic protection. This usually includes several vaccination appointments a few weeks apart.
• Booster vaccinations: After the basic immunization, regular booster vaccinations are necessary to maintain protection. The frequency of booster vaccinations depends on the veterinarian's recommendations and the dog's individual living conditions.

Target group:

In particular, dogs that have frequent contact with other dogs - as is the case at dog shows, dog parks or in animal boarding kennels - should be regularly vaccinated against kennel cough. Dogs with a weakened immune system also benefit from the vaccination.

Effectiveness:

While vaccination offers good protection against certain kennel cough pathogens, there are other pathogens against which there is currently no vaccination protection. Vaccination is therefore an important, but not the only, means of prevention.

Additional precautions:

In addition to vaccination, general health and hygiene measures are also important to minimize the risk of infection. This includes:

• Control and avoid stress, which can weaken the immune system.
• Good nutrition to strengthen the immune system.
• Avoid contact with sick animals.

Individual advice:

Before deciding on a vaccination, you should always consult your veterinarian individually. Factors such as the dog's age, state of health, lifestyle and previous vaccinations are taken into account.

Through the effective use of vaccinations in combination with other preventative measures, the risk of kennel cough can be significantly reduced to ensure the well-being of our four-legged friend.

How long does kennel cough last?

Kennel cough in dogs varies in duration depending on the severity and whether complications occur. Here are some important points:

For uncomplicated processes:

If kennel cough is uncomplicated, i.e. if no further infections occur, the disease usually heals on its own one to two weeks During this time, it is important that the dog gets plenty of rest and avoids stress so as not to impair the healing process.

For complicated processes:

If additional infections or other complications occur, the healing process can be significantly prolonged. In such cases, veterinary treatment is essential to address the underlying conditions and aid the healing process.

For secondary infections:

Secondary bacterial infections can also prolong the duration of kennel cough and may also be more serious. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian early and carefully follow the recommended therapeutic approaches.

Rest and relaxation:

Regardless of the course of the disease, it is crucial that the dog gets enough rest during the illness and avoids contact with other animals to prevent infection.

It is always advisable to consult a veterinarian immediately if you experience any signs of kennel cough for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. By providing appropriate care and following veterinary instructions, recovery time can be minimized and the dog's well-being optimally supported.

Is kennel cough particularly dangerous in puppies?

Yes, kennel cough can be particularly dangerous in puppies. Puppies have not yet fully developed immune systems, which makes them more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Here are some points why and how kennel cough in puppies should be taken particularly seriously:

Underdeveloped immune system:

Because puppies' immune systems are not yet fully developed, they often have difficulty fighting off infections, which can lead to more severe and prolonged illnesses.

Risk of complications:

Puppies are more susceptible to complications such as secondary infections, which can worsen the course of the disease and prolong the duration of the disease.

Vaccinations are essential:

It is especially important that puppies be vaccinated against kennel cough and other diseases to minimize their risk. Veterinarians recommend strictly following the vaccination schedule.

Early veterinary care:

If you see signs of kennel cough in a puppy, you should consult a veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help mitigate the course of the disease and speed recovery.

Supporting general health:

A balanced diet, regular deworming and avoiding stress are crucial to strengthening the puppy's immune system and supporting his overall health.

No contact with other dogs:

To avoid infection, puppies with kennel cough should be kept away from other dogs until they are fully recovered.

Treatment plan:

Following a treatment plan recommended by a veterinarian is essential to ensure the puppy receives all necessary medication and care.

Through proactive care and regular veterinary checks, owners can help minimize the risk of kennel cough and other illnesses in puppies and optimally support their health and well-being.

Where does the kennel cough pathogen come from and what is it called?

Kennel cough in dogs is caused by a variety of pathogens, both viral and bacterial in origin. It is important to understand that there is not just one pathogen, but that kennel cough can be caused by different pathogens, which often occur together.

Various pathogens causing kennel cough:

1. Bordetella bronchiseptica:

This bacterium is one of the most common causes of kennel cough. It attacks the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract and can also cause secondary infections.

2. Canine parainfluenza virus:

Another common pathogen of kennel cough. This virus damages the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, making it easier for bacterial pathogens to enter.

3. Canine adenovirus type 2:

This virus can also cause kennel cough and contributes to respiratory damage.

4. Mycoplasma spp.:

These organisms, which are between bacteria and viruses, can also cause kennel cough, often in combination with other pathogens.

Origin of the pathogens:

Kennel cough pathogens mainly come from infected dogs. Transmission occurs through droplet infection, for example when an infected dog coughs, sneezes or barks. Pathogens can also survive on objects such as bowls, toys or in kennel environments and thus infect other dogs. The name “kennel cough” comes from the fact that the disease often spreads quickly when many dogs live together in close quarters, as is the case in kennels, animal shelters or at dog shows.

Is kennel cough contagious to other animals or people?

Kennel cough is a disease specific to dogs, and most pathogens that cause kennel cough are limited to dogs. This means that they are generally not transmitted to humans and do not pose a threat to human health.

Transfer to other animals:

Although kennel cough is primarily a dog disease, there are reports that some of the pathogens, particularly the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica, can also infect other animals, such as cats or rabbits. However, it usually causes different symptoms and disease progression in these animals.

It is advisable to keep infected dogs away from other pets to prevent possible transmission, and good hygiene practices should be followed to minimize the risk of disease transmission between pets.

Human health:

For humans, there is a specific type of Bordetella, namely Bordetella pertussis, which causes whooping cough. However, this species is different from that which causes kennel cough in dogs, and transmission of Bordetella bronchiseptica to humans is extremely rare and usually only occurs in cases where the immune system is severely weakened.

Preventive measures:

It is important for pet owners to monitor their pets' health and consult a veterinarian if there are any signs of illness. Vaccinations, good hygiene and regular veterinary examinations can significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission between pets.

What does kennel cough sound like?

(C) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcUH_yzjqfA

Summary kennel cough

Infectious tracheobronchitis is one of the most well-known infectious diseases in dogs, often caused by bacteria such as Bordetella bronchiseptica and various viruses. This condition, commonly known as kennel cough, can affect dogs of all ages and is particularly common in high dog population environments, which explains the name “kennel cough.”

Symptoms of infectious tracheobronchitis include a dry, barking cough, gagging and sometimes fever and nasal discharge. It is important to consult a veterinarian immediately if these symptoms occur to diagnose or rule out kennel cough and begin appropriate treatment, as kennel cough can be very uncomfortable for affected dogs.

The diagnosis of infectious tracheobronchitis is most often based on the dog's clinical symptoms and medical history. In some cases, a respiratory tract swab may be performed to identify the specific pathogens of kennel cough, which may play a role in the selection of treatment.

Treatment for kennel cough can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the pathogens identified. In many cases of kennel cough, antibiotics can be used to combat bacterial infections and cough medicines can be used to relieve the urge to cough.

Infectious tracheobronchitis is highly contagious, and dogs affected by kennel cough should be isolated from other dogs to prevent the spread of kennel cough. Kennel cough prophylaxis is particularly important, and regular vaccinations can help reduce the risk of kennel cough infection.

Prevention of infectious tracheobronchitis through vaccination is particularly recommended for dogs that have regular contact with other dogs, such as in dog boarding kennels or at dog shows, as the risk of infection with kennel cough is particularly high here. In addition, strengthening the immune system plays a key role in the prevention of infectious tracheobronchitis, and a balanced diet and regular exercise can help promote the dog's health and prevent kennel cough.

Uncomplicated cases of kennel cough may resolve within one to two weeks, however, with complications and secondary infections, infectious tracheobronchitis can progress to more serious illnesses such as pneumonia. Therefore, it is crucial to pay attention to the first signs of infectious tracheobronchitis and start treatment in a timely manner to avoid complications and protect the dog's health.