Kennel Cough Symptoms in Dogs

Kennel cough is a respiratory disease caused either by bacteria or virus. However, Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common reasons for causing this condition in dogs. Due to this reason, it is often found that people use the terms kennel cough and Bordetella interchangeably. In most of the cases, dogs already suffering from a viral infection are more susceptible to the infection caused by Bordetella. The dog suffers from kennel cough when the bacterial or viral infection reaches the upper respiratory tract. Exposure to cold climate, smoke, pollutants, stress, etc. can lead to this condition. Severe hacking cough is one of the major kennel cough symptoms in dogs.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Dogs

As mentioned above, persistent and severe cough is the most common and significant sign of kennel cough. The sound of it appears as though something is stuck in the dog's throat. Due to this very reason, kennel cough in dogs is often misunderstood by people. The following are other symptoms observed in dogs:

• Hacking cough
• Gagging sound
• Eye discharge
• Production of phlegm
• Fever
• Runny nose
• Sneezing

A reverse sneeze is also one of the symptoms of kennel cough, that is commonly seen in dogs of certain breeds. Loss of appetite may not be observed in dogs. Some dogs may even experience lack of energy, fatigue and lack of activity. On the other hand, one should note that considerable rise in temperature, loss of appetite, excess coughing up of green phlegm, etc. are the symptoms that are observed when the condition becomes more severe and complications develop.

One of the most important thing to note is that kennel cough in dogs is highly contagious, i.e., can be transmitted from one dog to the other. As dogs are social animals, one should be watchful and quarantine the dog in order to prevent the spread of disease. But, kennel cough in dogs cannot be transmitted to human beings. However, it is recommended to keep babies, children and people suffering from any disease, away from dogs suffering from kennel cough.

Treatment of Kennel Cough

If you observe the above mentioned symptoms, you need to take it to the vet immediately. In most of the cases, minor kennel cough (in uncomplicated conditions) subsides in itself in 6-15 days. The vet may prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the bacterial infection. Secondly, he may also prescribe medications to overcome cough and other symptoms of this condition. If kennel cough persists for a longer period of time, it can develop into pneumonia. Therefore, it is advisable to get quick treatment. Along with this treatment, there are also several measures of home treatment that one can follow. Firstly, the dog must be kept in a warm environment and made to rest. Secondly, it should be made to drink a lot of water and have soft food that can be easily swallowed. It is not recommended for you to smoke near the dog.

There are also vaccinations available for the prevention of kennel cough in dogs. Lastly, one should note that with proper treatment, the dog can recover completely within 3-4 weeks.