Canine Cough is an often-misunderstood illness in dogs, which can be improperly referred to as “Kennel Cough.” Often, some vets will call any upper respiratory issue “Kennel Cough,” even if it isn’t. Veterinarians umbrella most upper respiratory viral illnesses as “Kennel Cough” due to treating most of them the same and knowing there are hundreds of viral strains. We would like to share some information with you about Canine Cough and urge you to keep your dog(s) up to date on vaccinations.
WHAT IS CANINE COUGH?
Canine Cough, medically known as Infectious Tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious upper-respiratory infection spread by airborne pathogens. The incubation period, or the onset of symptoms, is roughly 2 to 14 days. The main symptom is a loud, honking cough, sometimes accompanied by sneezing and nasal discharge. These symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Although this coughing is very annoying, it usually does not develop into anything more serious or life-threatening, but it is recommended to be seen and treated by a vet. It can lower the dog’s resistance to other diseases, making it susceptible to secondary infections.
CAN MY DOG BE VACCINATED TO BE PROTECTED FROM CANINE COUGH?
Somewhat. Just like the common cold, Canine Cough is viral and cannot be 100% protected against or cured; it simply must run its course. Mary’s Menagerie, PLLC does require every dog to be up to date on vaccinations given by a licensed veterinarian. But remember this vaccine is NOT foolproof. The Bordetella vaccination is created based on ONE viral strain that they think is going to affect most dogs from year to year. Similar to the flu, over 100 different strains of the virus exist. Some strains are NOT included in any of the vaccines and are subject to mutations. Therefore, in some cases, there is no prevention against Canine Cough, which also means your dog(s) could get it more than once. However, antibiotics and cough suppressants may often be prescribed to prevent secondary infections, although these medications do not attack the virus itself. As long as your dog is eating well, hydrating, and acting like themselves, they’ll most likely feel better in a week or two. Vaccines against Canine Cough and Canine Influenza are not always given as part of a dog’s typical vet visit. Please explain to your veterinarian that your dog(s) come to Mary’s Menagerie, PLLC and require the Bordetella vaccination to come to daycare and/or boarding. Mary’s Menagerie, PLLC also highly recommends getting the canine influenza vaccine and its boosters.
DOES CANINE COUGH OCCUR ONLY IN BOARDING FACILITIES?
No! Since this virus can be present anywhere and travel considerable distances through the air, it can affect any canine, even one that never leaves its own backyard. Dogs can also be exposed while running loose or while being walked near other dogs. Nevertheless, Canine Cough is more likely to occur where the concentration of dogs is greater, like veterinary offices, groomers, dog parks, boarding facilities, doggy daycare, dog shows, group dog training, etc.
ARE THE CHANCES OF CATCHING CANINE COUGH GREATER WHEN MY DOG IS VISITING A BOARDING FACILITY?
Possibly. In a facility, a dog encounters two elements that do not exist at home: proximity to a number of potential carriers of the virus and the excitement of a less familiar environment, which can lower the immune system. This also explains why children are more likely to catch the flu in daycare/school rather than at home. On the other hand, the higher the frequency of daycare/boarding visits, the greater the chances your dog(s) will build up antibodies and immunity to the illness!
IS THIS VIRUS AN ON-GOING PROBLEM?
Not typically. Similar to the flu, canine cough is seasonal and tends to affect an entire area at one time. When veterinarians begin to see cases, they normally observe a pattern in their patients; many recently visited the same facility, dog park, vet office/hospital, or a variety of dog-friendly areas. However, many dogs who catch the virus never leave their neighborhood. After a period of time, the veterinarians may not see another case for months.
CAN MARY’S MENAGERIE PREVENT MY DOG FROM CATCHING CANINE COUGH?
Unfortunately, no amount of supervision, sanitation, or personalized care can fully prevent a dog from catching an airborne virus. However, as trained professionals, Mary’s Menagerie, PLLC staff are 100% proactive against Canine Cough. We educate our staff and clients, require vaccinations, turn away sick dog(s), are constantly on watch for symptoms, and immediately contact parent(s) and take action to isolate any dog(s) showing signs of Canine Cough or Canine Influenza.
If your dog is showing signs or symptoms of illness, Canine Cough, or Canine Influenza, please do NOT come to daycare, boarding, or in contact with any other dog, and contact your vet immediately for specific instructions on the care your dog may need.