Canine Cough is a contagious respiratory tract disease of dogs. Affected dogs have a dry, hacking cough or may retch or gag and appear to choke. Canine Cough is also called kennel cough or canine infectious tracheobronchitis.
What is Canine Cough?
The main cause is usually a bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica and a mix of viruses which is why kennel cough is also called Bordetella. Dogs contract Canine Cough when they inhale airborne droplets or by direct contact with other dogs that may be carrying the disease. Your pet is at risk of contracting Canine Cough in areas where dogs gather together such as parks and the groomers. Despite this many dogs treated for Canine Cough at City Vet, have not been in direct contact with other affected dogs.
Signs of Canine Cough
The classic sign of Canine Cough is a persistent, dry, hacking cough which may start abruptly. Some dogs may sneeze, have a runny nose or an eye discharge. Some dogs may also go off their food due to the discomfort in their throat area or may vomit white or yellow foam. Canine Cough is contagious and so if you suspect your dog may have it, you should keep them away from other dogs.
Treatment and Prevention of Canine Cough
Medications such as antibiotics and cough medicines are used to treat Canine Cough. Anti-inflammatories can also be used to reduce the discomfort some dogs experience in their throat area.
Most dogs with Canine Cough recover completely within three weeks, though it can take longer in older dogs or those with other medical conditions. Ongoing Canine Cough can lead to pneumonia, so it is very important to follow up with your vet if your dog does not recover properly within the expected amount of time.
There is a vaccine available for Canine Cough. It is delivered as a mist into the nose. Although vaccines help, they do not guarantee complete protection against Canine Cough as it can be caused by many different bacteria or viruses. Canine Cough vaccinations are given to dogs once a year.
If you require any further information on Canine Cough or to arrange an appointment to have your dog vaccinated against Canine Cough, please phone City Vet on 061-419760.