What Is Canine Kennel Flu?
Canine kennel flu, or kennel cough, is a common name for a generalized, highly contagious and potentially fatal upper respiratory ailment known as Tracheobronchitis.
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Causes
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Kennel flu is usually the result of a bacterial infection, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica. More severe cases can be the result of multiple viruses, or secondary to more serious diseases that have weakened the dog's immune system.
Symptoms
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Kennel flu got its other common name, kennel cough, from a signature hacking cough; often, the coughing is strong and persistent enough to provoke retching. A dog with a mild case might also have a watery nose. More severe cases can be accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite and fever.
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Transmission
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Kennel flu is highly contagious. While not every case is contracted in a kennel, proximity to an infected dog or dogs is almost always the cause.
Mortality
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Many dogs will contract the infection several times during their lifetimes, and always overcome it. Dogs that are old, very young, or already suffering health problems have a much higher risk of death.
Prevention
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Keeping a dog from interacting with new or unknown canines, particularly puppies, is the best preventative measure, though standard annual vaccinations provide some protection, and Bordetella-specific immunizations are available.
Treatment
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Mild cases are rarely treated with antibiotics, though some veterinarians might suggest bronchodilators or even cough suppressants to help the dog through the course of infection. In more severe cases, antibiotics may be considered, along with aerosol therapy. Homeopathic and holistic remedies are also commercially available.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Bruce
