Tracheobronchitis, or kennel cough, is a condition caused by any one of several airborne bacteria or viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica or canine parainfluenza. This condition is usually seen in dogs that have been kept in high concentrations of other dogs, such as in a boarding facility, dog shows or breeding facilities, or have spent time in areas frequented by other dogs, such as dog parks or veterinary offices.
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Symptoms
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The primary symptom of kennel cough is a dry, hacking spasmodic cough, often times accompanied by white, foamy sputum. Rarely does a dog exhibit any other symptoms when infected with kennel cough alone. Weight loss may occur as a result of a lack of appetite if the dog has a particularly severe case of kennel cough, or if a secondary infection develops. In the event that the dog appears to have trouble eating, or generally lacks interest in eating, a quick trip to the vet is warranted.
Considerations
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Though mild cases of kennel cough generally do not require medical intervention, a trip to the veterinarian may be necessary if the dog begins to develop secondary symptoms, such as fever, loss of appetite, or listlessness. The onset of these symptoms will usually indicate a secondary bacterial infection brewing, most likely pneumonia, and will likely require medical treatment.
Treatment
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Treatment options for dogs that have kennel cough and are exhibiting weight loss due to lack of appetite are generally supportive and include: antibiotic therapy, intravenous fluids, vitamin injections and blood glucose monitoring. Anorexic dogs (dogs who are not eating) may be given glucose supplements either orally on intravenously to keep blood sugar levels up until the dog starts eating on his own. The treatments for pneumonia are the same, with the exception of adding oxygen therapy for dogs who are dyspnic, or having trouble breathing.
Prevention
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The best method for preventing a dog from developing kennel cough is to reduce the amount of time he spends in the company of other dogs, or in areas where many dogs gather. This includes dog parks, boarding facilities, veterinary offices, etc. The next step in kennel cough prevention is to have the dog vaccinated against bordetella bronchiseptica. While questions remain about the efficacy of this vaccine, it is advisable to administer a dose one week prior to boarding the dog or exposing him to large groups of other dogs.
Conclusion
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With proper medical care, dogs with severe kennel cough or pneumonia will recover quickly and unless there are underlying complications, the mortality rate is low. Mild to moderate kennel cough will resolve with or without treatment and symptom-control medications can be given to make the dog more comfortable.
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