New Kennel Cough Strain 2023: Understanding the Risks and Prevention

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs of all ages and breeds. It's caused by a bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica.

The new kennel cough strain in 2023 is a mutated version of the original virus, making it more aggressive and harder to treat.

This strain is more likely to cause severe symptoms, such as persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, and even pneumonia.

Prevention is key, and the best way to protect your furry friend is to get them vaccinated against kennel cough.

Kennel cough is a highly contagious, airborne upper respiratory infection that can be contracted by dogs in any environment where they gather.

It's also known as Bordetella, canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), or canine infectious tracheobronchitis.

Kennel cough is usually not fatal, but it can cause symptoms that make infected dogs and their human caregivers quite miserable.

This includes a persistent, hacking cough that can last for weeks, as well as sneezing, runny eyes, and lethargy.

In severe cases, kennel cough can lead to secondary infections, such as pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.

Pet owners, especially those who board their dogs or take them to dog daycare, need to be aware of the risks and take precautions to prevent the spread of kennel cough.

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Symptoms of the new kennel cough strain 2023 can be quite varied, but some common signs include acute cough, sneezing, nasal discharge, eye discharge, fever, anorexia, and lethargy.

The cough can be harsh and hacking, making it sound like your dog has something stuck in their throat. In severe cases, it can progress to life-threatening pneumonia requiring oxygen and ventilator support.

Dogs may also experience chronic mild to moderate inflammation of the trachea, which can last for weeks or even months. This inflammation can be minimally or not responsive to antibiotics.

Some dogs may show difficulty or rapid breathing, wheezing, dehydration, fever, nasal or eye discharge, weight loss, loss of appetite, and lethargy. These symptoms can be concerning, but it's essential to note that coughing often lasts for one to two weeks.

Here are some common respiratory sounds associated with kennel cough:

If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, it's crucial to keep them apart from others for a few days to prevent the spread of the disease.

Symptomatic and supportive treatment is the current approach for the new kennel cough strain, meaning treatment is focused on alleviating clinical signs and facilitating recovery rather than targeting a specific pathogen.

Treatment may include oxygen therapy, use of a nebulizer to deliver medicine to the lungs, and antibiotics to treat secondary infections. Your veterinarian may also recommend measures to ensure your dog has adequate nutrition and hydration, such as IVs.

To protect your dog from the mystery respiratory illness, make sure they've been fully vaccinated, especially for kennel cough. You can also take steps to reduce their risk by avoiding dog parks, pet stores, and grooming facilities.

Here are some treatment options:

It's also a good idea to keep your dog isolated if they show any signs of respiratory issues and to be mindful of boarding, unless absolutely necessary.

Kennel cough is caused by a variety of organisms, including Bordatella Bronchiseptica, a bacteria, and Parainfluenza, a virus.

These organisms can be highly infectious, especially when large numbers of dogs are affected, as is the case at the minute.

Multiple organisms can cause problems at the same time, making it a complex issue to tackle.

Mycoplasma canin, a unique organism that's neither a virus nor a bacteria, can also contribute to kennel cough.

This means that kennel cough is not just caused by one thing, but rather a combination of factors.

Vaccination is a crucial step in protecting your dog from Kennel Cough. The annual vaccine can protect against Parainfluenza virus, one of the organisms that can cause the illness.

The intranasal vaccine provides protection against Bordatella bronchaseptica, another common cause of Kennel Cough. This vaccine is usually effective within 4-5 days of administration and can last for about 12 months.

Some boarding kennels and dog walkers require the Bordatella vaccine, and it's probably a good idea to get it for your pet, especially if they're prone to close contact with other dogs. However, it may not provide full protection, but it can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms.

If your pet hasn't had a kennel cough vaccine in the last 6-12 months, it's a good idea to get one. Your veterinarian can answer any questions you may have about the vaccine and provide guidance on the best course of action for your pet.

The mystery respiratory illness affecting dogs is highly contagious and spreads rapidly among dogs in contact with other dogs. Dogs that visit dog parks, pet stores, and grooming facilities are at a higher risk of catching the illness.

Make sure your dog is fully vaccinated, especially for kennel cough. This can help protect them from the illness. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends that dogs be vaccinated against kennel cough to help prevent the spread of the disease.

Avoid dog parks, pet stores, and grooming facilities to reduce the risk of exposure. If your dog shows any signs of respiratory issues, contact your vet and keep your pet isolated.

Infection is often caught from close contact with another dog and/or sharing the same air-space. Examples of this could include playing in the park, on a walk by the river, at the groomers, or when in a boarding establishment. Most of the infections are transmitted through the air, although they can also be passed on through toys and food bowls.

Here are some tips to help keep your pet safe:

By following these tips, you can help protect your dog from the mystery respiratory illness and reduce the risk of transmission.