Kennel Cough – Bordetella

Kennel cough is an upper respiratory infection affecting dogs. It’s a form of bronchitis and is similar to a chest cold in humans. This infection can be caused by several different viruses and bacteria. The most common is a bacteria called Bordetella.

Symptoms can include a harsh, dry cough, retching, sneezing, snorting, gagging or vomiting in response to light pressing of the trachea or after excitement or exercise. The presence of a fever varies from case to case. Veterinarians can check for an inflammation of the larynx and trachea. Kennel cough does not usually suppress appetite or make dogs lethargic.

Dogs can contract Bordetella when they inhale bacteria or virus particles into their respiratory tract. Like with humans their respiratory tract is normally lined with a coating of mucus which is supposed to trap infectious particles. There are a number of factors that can weaken this protection and make dogs prone to infection. Kennel cough is easily spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as the ground, toys, and sidewalks.

If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, immediately isolate your dog from all other dogs and call your veterinarian for an appointment. Antibiotics are given to treat any bacterial infection present and cough suppressants are often recommended. Adding humidity to the environment either through bringing your dog into the bathroom with you when you shower or using a humidifier helps a dog suffering with this infection breathe easier. Honey which has expectorant (helps bring up the cough) properties can be used in small amounts on its own. Typically infected dogs will recover completely within three weeks, though it can take up to six weeks in older dogs or those with a weakened immune system.

Prevention of Kennel Cough

There are three forms of vaccine: one that is injected (vaccination), one that is delivered as a nasal mist (intranasal) , and one that can be given by mouth (oral). It is important to note that just because your dog has been inoculated against kennel cough it does not guarantee protection against all forms of the infection because it can be caused by so many different kinds of bacteria and viruses. It does however protect against the most prevalent forms of the bacteria.

*Owners with a weakened immune system (ie undergoing cancer treatment, HIV Positive, suffering from immune related diseases) should speak with their veterinarian about using the Bordetella vaccination instead of oral or intranasal as there is some though that because there is live virus in the preventative getting sneezed on by your dog for several days after inoculation could trigger a similar infection in humans. Those with normal immune systems are not at risk.