Kennel cough is a collective term for respiratory infections in dogs, which can be caused by several different viruses and bacteria. The disease is named kennel cough precisely because it often occurs in dogs that are in close contact with other dogs. The most common causes of respiratory infection are canine parainfluenza virus type 2 (CPiV-2) and canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCoV).
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Symptoms of kennel cough
The symptoms of kennel cough can remind a lot of typical cold symptoms in us humans, and often manifests itself in the form of a dry cough, phlegm cough and lassitude. The cough often comes in connection with activity and can sound violent, loud and barking. It may sound as if the dog has caught something in the throat, and sometimes the cough can become so violent that the dog vomits and vomits mucus.
The dog can also get a fever, but mostly manages without a particularly reduced general condition. However, the symptoms can vary depending on which virus and bacteria the dog is infected with, and if the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica is involved.
How is it contagious?
Kennel cough is transmitted via droplet transmission – that is, dogs can be infected by other dogs in the same way that we can get sick from being around other sick people. Therefore, the infection pressure is highest among dogs that are often in close contact with each other, such as at shows, kennels and competitions. The infectious agents can also survive on objects and surfaces and thus spread indirectly through, for example, equipment.
Dogs that have recovered or are symptom-free can also be contagious. The incubation period – the time from when the dog is infected until the disease manifests – is usually between 4 and 10 days. Kennel cough is not contagious to other species of animals or humans, but in extremely rare cases the disease can be transmitted to both cats and humans via the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria.
Treatment and advice for infected dogs
So, what should you do if you suspect your dog has a respiratory infection? In many ways, the advice is the same as when we humans get sick.
Kennel cough is rarely dangerous for healthy dogs, but we recommend contacting a veterinarian if your dog develops a cough – especially if it has a weakened immune system. To avoid infecting other dogs, it is recommended to make an appointment in advance if your dog is going in for a physical examination, so that it does not come into contact with other dogs in the waiting room. In general, coughing dogs should be isolated from other dogs for 2 weeks from the onset of symptoms. If the dog is healthy and the cough has subsided, it can usually greet other dogs again after the 2 weeks.
When we bring a coughing dog into our care, we perform a clinical examination to ensure that the cough is not due to pneumonia or another illness. As long as it is not a serious infection, medical treatment is usually not needed. The dog may be given anti-inflammatory medication to relieve irritation in the throat. Is your friend showing symptoms of kennel cough? Book an appointment for an examination at our clinic in Larvik here!
We also recommend following these tips to ease symptoms and discomfort:
- Keep the dog calm and avoid strenuous activity until the cough subsides.
- If you normally use a collar, it is a good idea to switch to a harness to avoid pressure on the trachea.
- Avoid drafts and hot, dry air - this can worsen the coughing.
- Feel free to soak up the food if the dog coughs heavily.
Prevent kennel cough
Given that kennel cough is highly contagious, vaccination is the most effective preventive measure. We recommend the kennel cough vaccine for all dogs in Norway. The vaccine provides protection against both infectious agents from the parainfluenza virus and the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium. However, the dog is not 100% protected by vaccination and can still be infected with kennel cough. However, vaccinated dogs experience much milder symptoms and are better protected against serious infection and pneumonia.
