Kennel cough

Kennel cough

Kennel cough is a very common and widespread disease affecting dogs worldwide.

It is caused by a bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica, other pathogens like viruses may also be implicated. Environmental allergens increase the likelihood of infection, making individuals suffering from allergies more susceptible at certain times of the year. Stresses and immunosuppression also affect contagion and spread. 

It gets it's name as it was initially isolated in kennel situations, where it spreads like wildfire. 

Transmission is airborne and via sputum and nasal discharge that is expelled when coughing onto surfaces. This is then spread via bowls, ground and people's clothes. I have brought it home to my dogs on numerous occasions, on my scrubs....

Dogs are contagious up to 10 days after last symptoms are evident.

Symptoms are as follows:

  • coughing
  • retching - owners are often concerned their dogs may have something stuck
  • bringing up white foam
  • inappetence, especially if fed kibble
  • sneezing, reverse sneezing
  • nasal discharge, mostly clear
  • eye discharge
  • mild loss of energy

The dogs typically sound like gees. The literature describes it as a 'goose honking' cough. 

 

Kennel cough is in itself not directly dangerous, unless it affects very young, old or immunocompromised individuals. It often is self-limiting. Medication will help to resolve symptoms quicker and prevent more spread. Symptoms usually last about 7-14 days after an incubation period of 2 -14 days.

There is a vaccination available. An injectable and an intranasal one. They offer brief (6 months) protection, useful if dogs are booked into kennel facilities shows or similar dog gatherings. Also advisable if dogs are walked in public places regularly. 

If the following symptoms develop, you should seek out your nearest vet:

  • loss of appetite
  • changes in breathing
  • lethargy
  • green nasal discharge
  • fever

 

 

 

HOME INFO 

 

  • Offer soft food to encourage eating with a sore throat.
  • Keep warm, if living in colder countries.
  • Clean eyes and nose from discharge.
  • Encourage water intake by offering broth.
  • Rest: no walks, keep away from other dogs (also due to contamination)
  • Honey is an effective antibacterial: 1 tbsp 2x/day for large breed dogs. ½ - 1 tsp 2x/day for the smaller breeds. Do not use in diabetic individuals
  • Steam to clear mucous and soothe airways. This can be achieved by placing dog is a bathroom while showering or using a humidifier.
  • Slippery elm soothes sore throats. This can be dosed in the form of a tincture or tea.
  • Probiotics help support the immune system and are thus beneficial
  • Echinacea in tincture or tea will also strengthen the immune system.
  • Lifewave patches: Glutathione, Aeon

 

 

Kennel cough does not offer long term immunity after infection, thus re-infection is common, especially in multi-dog households. This can result in a frustrating situation as, when one dog gets over the symptoms the next one starts, only to re-infect the first dog again.

 

Wishing you and your dogs all of the very best

 

Dr. Sarah

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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