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Kennel Cough and Canine Influenza Infections

Kennel Cough and Canine Influenza


               Kennel cough is a respiratory infection most commonly found in dogs though cats may occasionally be infected.  Kennel cough is not one infectious organism. It is, in fact caused by a number of different viral and bacterial infections that are loosely referred to as “kennel cough.” The most common cause is the bacteria known as Bordetella.

               The name comes from that fact that most infections occur in boarding kennels or other situations where large numbers of dogs are present together such as at a dog park or dog show.  The infections are airborne and highly contagious—infected dogs cough or sneeze and other dogs can inhale the droplets and become infected.

               Most kennel cough infections are mild and cause a dry cough often referred to as sounding like a goose honk.  In rare cases, kennel cough infection can lead to pneumonia and severe illness. This is more common in very young or very old patients. 

               Kennel cough may resolve on its own, but sometimes antibiotics and cough suppressants are prescribed.  Patients who are lethargic, not eating well, dehydrated or have a fever should be evaluated by a veterinarian for treatment.

               Vaccination may reduce the chance of a pet acquiring kennel cough especially in a high-risk situation such as staying at a kennel. However, vaccines contain only the most common strains of Bordetella so they are not 100 percent effective at preventing illness.  Vaccinated dogs may have milder symptoms.

               Cats can rarely be affected by Bordetella and most cases are in shelter situations.

               Canine influenza is a more serious but less common respiratory infection in dogs—first discovered at greyhound racetracks in Florida, it has spread throughout the US, primarily along the northeast coastline.  Canine flu is closely related to the equine flu virus and can cause fever, coughing, loss of appetite, and pneumonia. Because it is a virus, supportive care is the only treatment.  Patients may require hospitalization on IV fluids, supplemental oxygen, bronchodilators and antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections.  Rare cases can be fatal.

               A canine flu vaccine exists and is highly recommended for dogs who are boarding or during travel.

               Protect your pet against kennel cough and canine flu by having him or her receive appropriate vaccinations, especially if high risk as in cases of staying at a kennel, dog park or doggie day care where he or she may be exposed to a lot of other dogs.  If your pet does develop a cough or respiratory infection after staying at a kennel or being exposed to other dogs, have him or her checked by your veterinarian to receive proper treatment, especially if your dog has more severe symptoms such as loss of appetite or fever.

               Kennel cough and canine flu are common respiratory illnesses in dogs (and occasionally cats with Bordetella) but most can be treated and managed, especially if caught early.

               This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

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