Kennel Cough

Just what is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough is an upper respiratory infection that is caused by certain bacteria and viruses.  It may also be called “infectious tracheobronchitis”. 

It is usually contracted when animals and pets are confined, as they are when they are in kennels or veterinary offices. It is spread when animals are around other animals, much like the spread of illnesses among children when they attend school. Sharing air, water, or objects (like toys, etc.) can, and usually do, spread viruses and bacteria.

Kennel cough displays itself by causing an infection and swelling of the dogs’ throat or airway.  This will usually cause a repeated dry, hacking cough, or a severe, deep, and harsh cough.  It may also bring about gagging and the discharge of foamy mucus from the animal. 

The symptoms of kennel cough may be apparent as little as three to four days after the infection occurs, but may also take as long as two weeks. A cough that goes back and forth from being severe, to being less, and then back to being severe again is common. Some normal activities, such as drinking water, running, and playing, may cause the cough to get worse. Changes in the temperature of the dogs’ environment may also cause the coughing to get worse. With the exception of this coughing, some dogs may appear to be normal, with no change in appetite, while some other canine may run a fever, eat less, and have a runny nose.

Antibiotics may be used to treat this canine ailment. They will work to eliminate the bacteria causing the cough, but the viruses will have to be worked out by the animals’ natural immune system. Ironically, antibiotics have a tendency to lessen the dogs’ immunities, so be careful to use as little as possible.

You may also try an herbal remedy to eliminate the bacteria, to avoid the weakening of the immune system. Holistic veterinary offices can usually provide such remedies, lessening the chance of other long-term problems caused by a weakened immune system.

Hopefully this information has answered the question, “What is Kennel Cough” for you  in a satisfactory manner.