Is Kennel Cough a Zoonotic Disease in Dogs and People

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It's a common issue in dogs, especially those that spend time in kennels or shelters.

The American Kennel Club reports that kennel cough is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza virus. These pathogens can be spread through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes.

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It's caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, with Bordetella bronchiseptica being the primary culprit.

Symptoms of kennel cough can vary in severity, but common signs include a persistent cough, runny nose, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, the cough can be so intense that it can lead to pneumonia.

The disease is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected dog's respiratory secretions, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your dog.

Additional reading: Kennel Cough How Long Contagious

Kennel cough is a highly contagious inflammation of the trachea and bronchial tree caused by a contagious virus or bacterium. It's most often associated with dogs housed in high-density populations or boarding kennels.

The infectious agents can be transmitted through the air or by contact with contaminated surfaces. Puppies and younger dogs are at greatest risk, but even old dogs can acquire kennel cough.

Bordetella transmission is sneaky and stealthy, and any dog can get kennel cough. It spreads through various means, including:

It's worth noting that kennel cough can be transmitted to humans, although it's incredibly rare. However, humans with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or recent organ transplants, may be more vulnerable to transmission.

If this caught your attention, see: Can Humans Get Kennel Cough from Dogs

Kennel cough is a highly contagious inflammation of the trachea and bronchial tree that can be caused by a virus or bacterium. It's most commonly associated with dogs housed in high-density populations, but any dog can get it.

The infectious agents can be transmitted through the air or by contact with contaminated surfaces. Puppies and younger dogs are at greatest risk, but even old dogs can acquire kennel cough.

Kennel cough can spread through various means, including sharing of infected toys, contaminated food or water bowls, and transmission from another dog. In fact, a dog can get kennel cough from any place where they are around several other dogs at once, such as animal shelters, grooming facilities, boarding facilities, doggy daycares, and dog parks.

Since Bordetella is airborne, it spreads by droplets in the air, such as sneezes, coughs, and kisses. It can also be spread through sharing toys, infected water and food bowls, and even through infected water and food bowls.

Here are some ways kennel cough can spread:

It's worth noting that while it's incredibly rare, kennel cough can be transferred from animals to humans, but only in cases where the human is severely immunocompromised.

If you're looking to protect your dog from contagious infections like kennel cough, there are some steps you can take.

Keep your dog's immune system strong through regular wellness or preventive veterinary care, a nutritious diet, and exercise.

Avoid dog parks, kennels, and other places where your pet will be exposed to several unknown animals.

To specifically protect your dog from Bordetella and CIV H3N8, make sure to have them vaccinated.

If you notice any symptoms like those described, contact us right away.

Here are some key steps to take:

Symptoms of kennel cough in humans can be quite concerning. Sore, inflamed throats are a common symptom.

A dry, persistent cough is another sign. This can be quite uncomfortable and may lead to difficulty breathing and swallowing.

Some people may experience shortness of breath, which can worsen before improving. This can make it harder to breathe between coughing fits.

Kennel cough can also cause difficulty swallowing and a sore throat. These symptoms can be similar to the flu or Coronavirus.

If you're experiencing these symptoms, you may want to consider getting tested for Covid. It's more likely that you have Coronavirus than kennel cough.

Here are the symptoms of kennel cough in humans:

Prevention is key when it comes to kennel cough. To avoid exposure, you should steer clear of areas where dogs socialize, such as dog daycare centers, parks, shelters, and boarding or training facilities.

The risk of exposure is higher in these types of environments. Being current on routine vaccinations, including DA2P and Bordetella bronchiseptica, is highly recommended.

Vaccination against canine influenza virus is also a good idea, especially for pet dogs or those in custody for prolonged periods. Two doses, spaced at least four weeks apart, are required to develop immunity.

To sanitize common areas, fomites, and contaminated items, use accelerated hydrogen peroxide or calcium hypochlorite. This will help reduce the spread of the virus.

By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of exposure to kennel cough.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Canine Distemper Virus Symptoms

Kennel cough is a highly contagious inflammation of the trachea and bronchial tree caused by a contagious virus or bacterium. It's associated with dogs housed in high-density populations or boarding kennels.

The most common bacteria responsible for kennel cough is Bordetella bronchiseptica, which is airborne and spreads through droplets in the air, sharing toys, and contaminated food and water bowls.

Dogs of any age can get kennel cough, but puppies and younger dogs are at greatest risk. The incubation period from contraction to symptoms developing is typically between 3 to 10 days, and symptoms can last for days to weeks.

A mild to moderate cough without other symptoms is usually self-limiting, but occasional cases become lingering and cause chronic bronchitis. If your dog is making a repetitive hacking cough or honk, taking them to the vet should be a priority.

Some people describe their dog's cough as a nasally, guttural groan or a loud "honk" a goose would make. The cough is often accompanied by retching and can be caused by various factors, including infectious agents, upper respiratory infections, and foreign bodies.

Here are some common places where dogs can get kennel cough:

Table: Places Where Dogs Can Get Kennel Cough