Question:

What is kennel cough?

Answer:

Kennel cough is actually a complex of highly contagious respiratory pathogens in the dog. It is called kennel cough because the complex tends to spread rapidly from dog to dog in boarding kennel or humane shelter situations.

The reason we refer to it as a “complex” is because several different viruses and bacteria, either alone or in combination, can be the underlying cause. The two most common organisms at the root of the acute tracheobronchitis that ensues are the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica and the canine parainfluenza virus. Two types of canine adenovirus (CAV-1 and CAV-2) as well as canine herpesvirus or a mycoplasma (a certain type of bacteria that lacks a cell wall) may also be involved. As the common name would suggest, the complex is characterized typically by a non-productive (dry, not producing phlegm), hacking cough. The dog acts like it is gagging on something and is trying to cough it up. These dogs are otherwise bright, alert and responsive with no fever and a normal appetite. But these dogs should be seen by your veterinarian because the condition can progress to a more serious pneumonia.

In these complicated cases, the pet is lethargic due to a low grade fever and it loses its appetite. The infection can be spread when your dog has been kenneled or is in close contact with other dogs. If your dog was in contact with other dogs 7 to 10 days prior to the onset of this type of cough, it may have kennel cough, and you should warn the veterinary staff when making your appointment. The veterinary team will want to keep your dog isolated from the other patients to prevent any further spread.

Part of your pet’s routine injectable vaccinations target several of the organisms that we know cause kennel cough (parainfluenza and CAV-2). Your veterinarian will do a risk assessment on your pet to determine what vaccines are most appropriate for your pet. With the proper vaccine program in place, your pet should be protected against kennel cough if it is exposed.

Dr. Revoir’s veterinary opinion should only be used as an educational guide and in no way should be substituted for licensed veterinary care. Your veterinarian should be consulted in all health matters involving your pet.