If you recently brought your dog home from a shelter, or if you boarded your dog and they developed a worrisome cough less than a week later, your dog may have a classic case of infectious canine tracheobronchititis, otherwise known as kennel cough – a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs.
As the name suggests, the disease involves inflammation of the trachea and bronchi. Kennel cough is very common, and it is known to affect a high percentage of dogs at least once in their lifetime. Kennel cough is also medically known as Bordetella.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
The symptoms of kennel cough, include:
- A dry hacking cough
- A cough that sounds like honking
- Nasal discharge that appears watery
- Retching (to make the sound and movement of vomiting)
In mild cases, the dog will be active and eating normally, however, in severe cases the symptoms can progress and cause: pneumonia, fever, lethargy, no appetite, and death.
Those most at risk are unvaccinated puppies, young dogs, and dogs with compromised immune systems – these dogs usually suffer the most severe symptoms of the disease.
Diagnosis & Treatment
The diagnoses of kennel cough has much to do with a dog's symptoms, and whether the dog was recently exposed to other dogs, especially if it's recently visited a shelter, kennel, or vet. Usually, a complete blood profile and a urinalysis will be conducted.
In mild cases, there is generally no need for antibiotics, however, your dog may be given an anti-inflammatory agent for comfort. If your dog is not eating, running a fever, or showing signs of respiratory distress, your dog will be given antibiotics as this could signal pneumonia.
If you suspect that your dog has kennel cough, it is best to have him or her diagnosed by a veterinarian as soon as possible.