How to Tell if Your Dog Has Kennel Cough

What it kennel cough? It’s a medical condition in dogs that is caused by a bacteria and virus. The condition can also be referred to as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) or canine infectious tracheobronchitis. It can affect your dog’s lungs, windpipe and voice box.

While Kennel Cough isn’t really life threatening to your dog, except if it is still a puppy, or if there are certain complications in its immune system.

WHAT IS KENNEL COUGH

Where does kennel cough come from? Kennel cough is actually an infection that can be caused by various types of organisms, and it can also be gotten from unvaccinated dogs as well. The disease can spread easily, and dogs that have certain conditions are also susceptible to the virus. These ailments can be: distemper, Bordetella bronchiseptica, or parainfluenza.

Since this type of condition involves coughing, if your dog has it, then it can easily be transmitted to other dogs because the air can transfer your pet’s saliva in other directions. The disease can even stay in your dog’s toys, dishes or water for a few days as well. While kennel cough isn’t really much of a serious disease, it is still important to be able to determine whether your pet has it. But how do you tell if your dog has it?

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF KENNEL COUGH

The incubation period of kennel cough is approximately four to ten days, and it is important to contact your veterinarian right away if you suspect that you pet has it. This is because some of the symptoms of kennel cough are similar to other serious conditions such as canine influenza and/or canine distemper. The symptoms associated with kennel cough can also be uncomfortable as well.

Kennel cough can also be mild as well, so not all symptoms may be present. Here are some of the most common symptoms of kennel cough you should watch out for:

1. Dry and Hacking Cough – This is one of the most common symptoms associated to kennel cough. It can sound like a honking noise, and the cough can go on for a long time. The cough will seem persistent and it can be quite bothering as well. So if you find your dog constantly coughing while they are doing their day to day activities, then this is the sign you are looking for.
2. Fever – Fever is another symptom to watch out for. A low-grade fever may be present accompanied by coughing. This is a sign that your pet’s body is trying to fight off the infection.
3. Lethargy – Lethargy can also be another symptom of kennel cough as well. If your dog is feeling lethargic, then it may have poor appetite, a decreased energy and lack of interest doing most of its usual daily activities and other things that your dog may be happy doing.
4. Nasal Discharge – Watery and runny eyes is also a symptom of kennel cough. The discharge is usually clear, but it can also look a little cloudy or discolored.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR DOG HAS KENNEL COUGH

If you suspect that your dog has kennel cough, then make sure that it pays a visit to the veterinarian. This way, your veterinarian will be able to check and instruct you on how to treat it. Antibiotics are usually prescribed, along with some good rest. You can also have you dog vaccinated against the Bordetella virus, which can be a contributor to kennel cough.