Kennel cough is a common disease among dogs. Fortunately, the effects are short-lived, treatment is non-invasive and a positive prognosis is the norm.
-
Definition
-
Kennel cough is a highly contagious upper respiratory illness in canines. This disease, so named because it can be spread quickly among dogs, such as in the close quarters of a kennel, will infect a high percentage of dogs in their lifetime.
Causes
-
Spread through the air by infected dogs sneezing and coughing, the majority of cases are caused by more than one organism which damage and irritate the lining of the dog's trachea and upper bronchia.
Symptoms
-
The most common symptom is a dry hacking cough sometimes followed by retching. Other indications may include sneezing, snorting, gagging or a watery nasal discharge.
Treatment
-
Treatment usually consists of non-prescription, and occasionally prescription, cough suppressants. If there is a persistent severe cough, antibiotics can be prescribed to assist the dog in his recovery. Kennel cough may lead to more serious health concerns if not treated early on.
Prevention
-
Vaccination is one form of prevention. Even though it rarely provides protection against contracting the disease, it does help reduce its severity. In kennels, it is imperative that all cages are disinfected.
-