Canine infectious tracheobronchitis, or kennel cough, is a contagious upper-respiratory infection that occurs via the spread of viruses and bacteria from dogs in close proximity. Contagious kennel cough causes inflammation of the throat and trachea, resulting in a dry, hacking cough.
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Duration
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The length of contagious kennel cough depends on the virus, bacteria or combination producing the disease, but in general, symptoms appear within two to 14 days of exposure and last for approximately 10 to 20 days. Infected dogs remain contagious for up to 14 weeks as they continue to shed bacteria and can infect other dogs during this time.
Causes
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The most common cause of contagious kennel cough is the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria and parainfluenza virus. Most cases of contagious kennel cough involve more than one bacteria and/or virus.
Symptoms
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The most common symptom is a dry, hacking cough that can lead to vomiting. Other symptoms can include nasal discharge, lethargy, fever and loss of appetite.
Treatment
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Mild cases of contagious kennel cough may require only monitoring the dog's condition or giving it a mild cough suppressant. More severe cases may require treatment with antibiotics.
Considerations
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Treatment does not shorten the time dogs remain contagious. In addition, kennel cough vaccinations contain live virus, causing dogs to shed the virus and be contagious for up to 72 hours after receiving the vaccine.
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