Understanding Kennel Cough: Causes and Symptoms

Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) is often referred to as “kennel cough.” It’s highly contagious and affects your dog’s respiratory tract. All breeds are susceptible to this illness. Fortunately, most cases are not severe, but kennel cough can make your sweet pup feel pretty awful. We will show you the causes and symptoms of kennel cough, so you can recognize this infection and get your dog feeling better soon, or even prevent it.

Causes of kennel cough

Kennel cough can be caused by airborne bacteria, like Bordetella bronchiectasis. It can also be caused by viruses like canine influenza. At times, it may be a mixture of bacterial and viral infections. Many times, kennel cough is spread when your dog spends time with other dogs. That could be at the local dog park, doggie daycare, or the vet if another dog hasn’t yet had the Bordetella vaccine. If you’ve had children in school, you probably understand how easily infections spread.

Kennel cough symptoms

The first symptom you’ll likely notice is a dry cough. It’ll come in spasms due to the pathogens that induce trachea inflammation and irritate the airways. That sometimes leads to vomiting, sneezing, or your dog coughing up white, foamy discharge. A less frequent symptom is conjunctivitis. That is the inflammation of the eyelids and nasal mucous membrane. Some pups will remain active and alert, continuing to eat well. Still, if you notice any of these symptoms, isolate your dog from other canines. Some pets get depressed and become feverish with kennel cough and may even expel a thick yellow or green discharge from their noses. Whether it seems severe or mild, you should take your fur baby to the vet to get treated.

Treatment

Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics that will help prevent another infection. Cough suppressants also help your pup feel better while he’s healing. The specific treatment will depend on how sick your dog is when examined. If your pet has a more severe infection, your vet may recommend anti-inflammatory medicines that reduce fever and inflammation. If your dog is not drinking due to the cough, fluids may also be given. Rest is generally advised for a week or two. Be sure to keep your dog comfortable with his favorite plush toys or Romp-n-Roll ball for when he feels better.

The good news

You can prevent your dog from getting kennel cough with the Bordetella vaccination. If your pup spends time with other dogs frequently, you should talk to your vet about the kennel cough vaccine at each annual visit. The vaccine is good for 12 months. Kennel cough is highly contagious, but it’s not typically dangerous to your dog. It’s also highly treatable, so there’s no need to worry. Some more severe illnesses can mimic the symptoms of kennel cough, so you should get your vet to check out your canine companion to be on the safe side. It may take a few weeks, and the cough can sound pretty bad, but with the right love and care, your dog will feel better in no time. Before you know it, your pup will be ready to play and go for walks like normal.