New Kennel Cough: What You Need to Know About the Dog Illness

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness that affects dogs. It's caused by a combination of viral and bacterial infections.

The new strain of kennel cough is particularly concerning because it's resistant to antibiotics. This means that traditional treatments may not be effective in fighting the infection.

Symptoms of kennel cough include a persistent cough, runny nose, and sneezing. These symptoms can be severe and may last for several weeks.

The new strain of kennel cough is spread through the air when an infected dog coughs or sneezes. This is why it's essential to keep your dog away from other dogs if they're showing symptoms.

Discover more: New Kennel Cough Strain 2023

Kennel cough is a complex condition with multiple causes, and understanding its underlying factors is crucial for effective management.

The primary culprits behind kennel cough are various viruses and bacteria that can affect dogs.

Canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus type 2, canine influenza virus, and canine distemper virus are all viruses that can contribute to kennel cough.

A fresh viewpoint: Canine Distemper Infection

Some bacteria, like Bordetella bronchiseptica, also play a significant role in the development of kennel cough.

Here are some of the key organisms that can contribute to kennel cough:

Note that protection against some of these organisms is available through standard vaccines (*), while additional vaccines are needed for others (**).

The signs of CIRDC can be a bit tricky to spot, but they're often similar to those of kennel cough. A frequent, honking cough is the classic sign, and it can be accompanied by froth that looks like vomit.

This cough tends to worsen with activity or exercise, which can irritate the airways. Some dogs may also sneeze and have a runny nose or eyes.

Not all dogs with CIRDC will have a cough, but if they do, it's often the first sign of the illness. In most cases, the illness is mild and dogs fully recover within 7 to 10 days.

Discover more: How Often for Kennel Cough Vaccine

However, some dogs may develop more severe signs like lethargy, decreased appetite, fever, productive cough, and rapid or labored breathing, which can signal that bacteria have infected the lungs (bacterial pneumonia) and immediate veterinary attention is needed.

Here are some common signs of CIRDC:

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it's essential to report them to your veterinarian, as they could be a sign of a more serious disease.

Protecting your dog from new kennel cough requires a few simple steps. Keeping your dog's vaccines current is key, as standard or "core" canine vaccines are highly effective against some CIRDC-associated viruses and are recommended for all dogs.

It's also essential to stay informed about outbreaks in your area, as canine influenza is known to be circulating in some places. If you're planning to travel with your dog, delay or avoid travel to places where outbreaks are occurring.

To further protect your dog, keep them away from toys and food and water bowls used by dogs outside your household. This can help prevent the spread of infection.

Here are some recommended vaccines for optimal protection against common respiratory infections:

Remember, dogs can be contagious and still look perfectly healthy, so it's crucial to keep them isolated if they're showing symptoms.

Kennel cough is highly contagious and can spread quickly in areas where dogs congregate.

Dogs commonly contract kennel cough at places like boarding kennels, dog daycare facilities, dog parks, dog training groups, and dog shows.

You can catch kennel cough by coming into contact with airborne droplets, direct contact with another dog, or by touching contaminated surfaces, such as water or food bowls.

Dogs can be exposed to kennel cough through their daily interactions with other dogs, making prevention and awareness crucial in preventing the spread of the disease.

Kennel cough can be spread to dogs in dog-friendly areas, such as breweries and cafes, where dogs are present.

Discover more: How Fast Does Kennel Cough Spread

If your dog has kennel cough, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection, as well as cough suppressant medication to ease symptoms.

Typically, mild cases of kennel cough are treated with a week or so of rest and supportive care, similar to how you'd treat your own common cold. Your vet may prescribe antibiotics and cough suppressant medication.

Your vet may also recommend using a dog harness rather than a dog collar to walk a dog with kennel cough, as irritation of the tracheal area can aggravate the cough and possibly even cause damage.

If your dog normally visits a dog daycare while you're at work, you'll need to keep them home to help limit the spread to other dogs.

Here are some signs that your dog should see the vet for kennel cough: