kennel cough is a highly contagious disease that can be caused by various bacteria and viruses. They cause inflammation of the trachea and deeper airways and damage to these airways. Usually the first infection is caused by a virus such as the one that is also responsible for distemper.

The damage allows other viruses and bacteria to settle in the damaged tissue, resulting in worse problems.

 

 

 

Given its contagiousness, the disease will spread quickly in places where many dogs are gathered, such as kennels, pet shops, boarding houses or dog shows. If the dog has to go to a kennel or an animal boarding house, it is recommended (and in many cases mandatory) to vaccinate against kennel cough.

 

Symptoms

 

Usually the disease manifests itself as a very dry cough. Depending on the exact cause and the vaccinations that the dog has received, more serious symptoms such as lacrimation and nasal discharge and fever can occur.

 

In rare cases - especially in puppies or weakened animals - the dog can contract pneumonia, which can also be fatal.

 

Untreated kennel cough can sometimes cause chronic bronchitis.

 

Diagnosis

 

The diagnosis is usually easy to determine by the vet based on the symptoms.

 

Therapy

 

Treatment will include a course of antibiotics, as the worst symptoms are caused by a bacteria (Bordetella bronchiseptica).

The virus infection cannot be treated and you will have to wait until the dog has built up a defense against these pathogens.

 

Prognosis

 

The prognosis is usually good in adult animals that are not debilitated.

Untreated kennel cough or kennel cough in puppies or old animals can have lasting consequences in the form of chronic bronchitis.

In rare cases, pneumonia (pneumonia) can occur, sometimes leading to death.

 

Prevention

 

One can prevent the worst symptoms of kennel cough by vaccinating the dog. You can vaccinate against some viruses that can cause the disease. An additional vaccine against the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica may be indicated in animals that come into contact with a large number of other dogs (show, kennel, pension,...). This vaccine is a liquid that is dripped into the nose