Kennel Cough in Dogs When to Worry and See a Vet

Kennel cough is a common canine illness that can be concerning for dog owners. It's usually caused by a virus or bacteria, but it can also be a sign of something more serious.

If your dog is showing symptoms such as a persistent cough, runny nose, and loss of appetite, it's a good idea to see a vet. In fact, studies have shown that dogs with kennel cough are 50% more likely to develop pneumonia.

If your dog is experiencing difficulty breathing or is showing signs of distress, such as panting or whining, seek veterinary attention immediately. This is especially true if your dog is a puppy or senior dog, as they may be more susceptible to complications.

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It's caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, including the parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bronchiseptica.

The symptoms of kennel cough can be quite varied, but they often include a persistent, hacking cough that can last for several weeks. This cough can be dry and hacking, or it can produce mucus.

The disease is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected dog, or by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces or air.

A fresh viewpoint: Kennel Cough How Contagious

Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs, caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza virus, and adenovirus.

It's a common issue, especially in areas with high dog populations or in situations where dogs are in close proximity to each other.

The symptoms of kennel cough can vary in severity and may include a persistent cough, sneezing, runny eyes, and lethargy.

A dog's immune system plays a crucial role in fighting off the infection, but some breeds are more susceptible to kennel cough due to their anatomy and genetics.

Kennel cough can be spread through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, or by direct contact with the dog's saliva or mucus.

For more insights, see: Dog Upper Respiratory Infection vs Kennel Cough

Kennel cough is a general term referring to a group of canine infectious respiratory diseases. These conditions spread rapidly in places like grooming and boarding facilities or dog parks.

Your dog can pick up kennel cough anywhere, but most cases happen after being near an infected dog or having contact with contaminated objects.

The medical name for kennel cough in veterinary circles is canine infectious respiratory disease complex, or CIRD.

CIRD is highly contagious and can spread through the air, making it extremely infectious in canine social situations.

CIRD can also spread when items like dishes, toys, or bedding are shared between dogs.

If this caught your attention, see: How Is Kennel Cough Spread

Symptoms of kennel cough can be a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a goose honk. This is distinct from a reverse sneeze, which is a normal occurrence in some dogs and breeds.

A strong cough is the most obvious symptom of kennel cough. It can be accompanied by a runny nose, sneezing, lethargy, loss of appetite, and a low fever.

Kennel cough can be contagious and may be accompanied by periodic sneezing, nasal discharge, or eye discharge. Your dog may also experience decreased appetite, a general sense of lethargy, or an elevated temperature.

For another approach, see: Can a Dog Die from Reverse Sneezing

If your dog repeatedly coughs like they may have an object lodged in their throat, it's time to call a veterinarian for an evaluation. The cough can be so severe that it may sound like your dog has something stuck in their throat, but they're still able to eat and drink between episodes.

A mild reduction in appetite and energy level are to be expected in dogs with kennel cough. However, a dog with kennel cough will usually still eat and play every day.

In some cases, kennel cough can develop into a more serious condition like pneumonia, so it's essential to seek professional advice to assess and manage your dog's cough.

Preventing Kennel Cough is crucial to minimize the risk of infection. Vaccination is a key step in preventing kennel cough, but it's essential to understand that it doesn't guarantee protection against all forms of the disease.

There are three forms of vaccine for kennel cough: injected, nasal mist, and oral. The intranasal and oral vaccinations are typically given once a year, but high-risk dogs may require booster shots every 6 months.

Dogs who frequently board, visit daycare, or participate in canine sports may benefit from the vaccine. Many facilities require proof of vaccination, so it's crucial to check with your vet and the facility beforehand.

The bordetella vaccine is available in oral, intranasal, and injectable forms, but it may not prevent kennel cough caused by other germs. Your vet can help determine the best course of action for your dog.

Here are some general guidelines for preventing kennel cough:

If your dog's cough lasts more than a week or worsens, it's time to see a vet. They may also ask you to make an appointment if they seem extra tired or have a fever, which is normal if it's between 100 to 102.5 degrees F.

A fever is a sign that something is off, and your vet will want to check it out. If your dog won't eat, has other health problems, or has recently been in a place with other dogs, it's a good idea to schedule a vet visit.

Here are some questions your vet may ask you to help diagnose the issue:

If your dog's cough lasts more than a week or worsens, it's time to see a vet. A persistent cough can be a sign of a serious underlying issue.

Their normal body temperature is between 100 to 102.5 degrees F, so if they have a fever, it's a good idea to schedule an appointment. A high temperature can be a sign of infection or illness.

If your dog seems extra tired or won't eat, these can be warning signs that something is wrong. A lack of appetite or energy can be a sign of a serious health issue.

Other health problems can also be a reason to see a vet. If your dog has a pre-existing condition, it's essential to monitor their health closely.

Here are some questions your vet may ask you to help diagnose the issue:

It's essential to answer these questions honestly to help your vet determine the best course of action.

Isolating your dog is a crucial step in preventing the spread of kennel cough to other dogs. As soon as your dog shows symptoms, isolate them to prevent the potential spread to other dogs.

You should isolate your dog to a separate room in your home, and make sure to wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses. This can also help to lessen the spread of bacteria and viruses via objects in your home that may be difficult to sanitize.

By taking these steps, you can help keep your dog and other pets in the household safe from the infection.

Intriguing read: Kennel Cough Bacteria