Kennel Cough Treatment for Dogs

Kennel cough (or infectious tracheobronchitis) is easily caught from other dogs, which is why it is commonly given the name kennel cough. The dry, hacking cough originates from a damaged or irritated lining of the dog's trachea and bronchi. The damage or irritation comes from contagious viruses or a bacteria. It is treated with either cough suppressants, antibiotics or both. A vaccine is available.

Causes

Most cases of kennel cough actually have more than one cause. First, the lining of the trachea and upper bronchi are damaged by a virus or bacteria. Then the exposed nerve endings are irritated by the air passing over them. The most common virus that attacks the lining of the trachea in this manner is the parainfluenza virus, and the most common bacteria is the bordetella bronchiseptica.

Symptoms

Dogs who have kennel cough present the symptom of a dry, hacking cough that some owners describe as a honking sound. Sometimes the dog may retch or gag, or have a watery discharge from its nose. Usually, the dog has been recently boarded or otherwise around other dogs. Most cases are mild, and the sick dog will continue to eat and be active. In serious cases, the dog may develop a fever, become lethargic or develop more serious conditions such as pneumonia. This is very rare and is more common in otherwise sick or very young puppies. It usually lasts about a week.

Treatment for Mild Cases

Treatment for mild cases usually is to give the dog a cough suppressant, if needed. Otherwise, the dog owner should simply monitor the dog to make sure he is still eating, active and showing no signs of any fever or more serious problems as described above.

Treatment for Severe Cases

In more severe cases of kennel cough, antibiotics may be prescribed (the most commonly used antibiotics are doxycycline and trimethoprim-sulfa), or the dog may be admitted for observation, especially if there are signs of developing pneumonia. If the dog has not been eating, nutrients may be given through an IV. The dog should also not wear a collar, and if he is on antibiotics, he should not be given a cough suppressant.

Prevention/Solution

Most vets say that kennel cough can be prevented simply by keeping your dog away from other dogs. This is very difficult to do, however. If you know this is not feasible, you can give your dog a vaccination. Although the vaccine may not cover every virus that can cause kennel cough, it will reduce the severity of the disease.

Resources

• Mar Vista Animal Care Center: Kennel cough, including a video