Is Kennel Cough Contagious to Humans?

Canine kennel cough, which also known as tracheobronchitis, canine infectious tracheobronchitis, Bordetellosis or Bordetella, is a highly contagious disease in dogs. The disease is known as kennel cough, because it is commonly seen in dogs that stay in kennels. It does not mean that dog kennels are responsible for this disease. In fact, these animals are kept in small areas, where they come in close contact, which results in quick spread of infections. This may happen through direct contact or through contaminated surfaces. As the affected dogs sneeze and cough a lot, the infection is easily spread through the air. Even dogs that frequent grooming parlors and animal shelters are also at the risk of developing kennel cough.

What is Kennel Cough?

Kennel cough or tracheobronchitis in dogs is similar to acute bronchitis in humans. This disease is characterized by a dry cough, which sounds like something is stuck in the throat. Severe cases of kennel cough may cause nasal or eye discharge, fever, cough with phlegm discharge, green mucus and loss of appetite. This dog illness can be caused by both virus and bacteria, but it has been noted that most cases of kennel cough are caused by the bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica, which infects the windpipe of dogs. The most common viral agent for canine kennel cough is parainfluenza virus. This disease is highly contagious and spreads very fast. Once, the dog gets infected, it will take around four to five days for the kennel cough symptoms to appear.

According to vets, the disease is self-limiting and does not require treatment. Kennel cough treatment includes cough suppressant and antibiotics for bacterial infections. Medical attention is necessary for dogs with severe symptoms, which may affect their health. The recovery time is usually two to three weeks for most dogs, but, if left untreated, this disease can lead to more serious conditions, like pneumonia. Even vaccination is available, in order to prevent kennel cough in dogs.

Is Kennel Cough in Dogs Contagious to Humans?

Now, we know that kennel cough is contagious and can spread from one dog to another. Can humans get kennel cough from dogs? Is kennel cough contagious to people? Humans mostly have close interaction with dogs, as these animals are the most preferred pets. So, there are chances that the disease spreads to people, who are in close contact with the infected dogs. According to health experts, humans too can get affected by kennel cough. Those with weak immune system are more prone to this disease, which can cause upper respiratory infection in humans. This may be because Bordetella bronchiseptica is closely related to the agent, which causes whooping cough in humans. You may raise the doubt that why is kennel cough contagious to humans? The answer is that bacteria and virus can spread fast and contaminate the surfaces. The disease spreads to humans, as they come in direct contact with the infected dogs or touch the contaminated surfaces. The virus or bacteria become airborne, as the dog sneezes or coughs. So, humans can get infected by breathing the contaminated air too.

Is Kennel Cough Contagious to Babies?

So, now, you know that kennel cough is contagious to humans with weak immune system. In the same way, kennel cough is contagious to children and babies who have developing immune system. In case of children, who are more involved with pet dogs, chances of infection are very high. So, it will be safer to isolate the dog for the infected period as the animal can spread the disease for some time, even after the symptoms subside.

Now, you know why is kennel cough contagious to humans and who are prone to get infected by this disease. This disease in dogs can be prevented by vaccination (of dogs) and by maintaining strict hygiene. Cleaning and disinfecting the cages and food/water containers must be done as a part of regular dog care. Keep your pets away from infected dogs. All these measures can prevent occurrence of kennel cough in your pet dog. In case of infection in your dog, allow him to rest, keep him well hydrated and give medications if required. It is always advisable to take the dog to the vet, for proper diagnosis and treatment.