Bordetella and Kennel Cough
Several viruses and bacteria can cause kennel cough, often at the same time
Canine infectious tracheobronchitis – sometimes referred to as kennel cough – is not only a concern for boarded or kenneled dogs. Dogs also commonly contract these infections at places such as dog parks, dog shows, vet clinics, grooming facilities, dog shows, and doggie daycare. Transmission is by aerosolized respiratory secretions, by direct dog-to-dog contact, and via contaminated fomites. Wise and Wonderful Integrative Veterinary Center, your local Santa Rosa vet, offers some information about treatment and prevention.
These infections are highly contagious and can be caused by one or more different pathogens, sometimes with simultaneous infections, including:
Bordetella bronchiseptica (bacteria)
Parainfluenza virus
Adenovirus type 2
Canine distemper virus
Canine influenza virus
Canine herpesvirus (very young puppies)
Mycoplasma canis (a single-cell organism that is neither virus nor bacterium)
Canine reovirus
Canine respiratory coronavirus (not to be confused with SARS‑CoV‑2, which can cause COVID-19 in humans)
While most cases are mild and self-limiting, causing only a dry, hacking cough, some can become more severe, leading to fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Puppies, unvaccinated dogs, immunosuppressed, senior dogs, and dogs with co-infections are particularly vulnerable to the more severe disease. Typically, clinical signs are mild and self-limiting. Most affected dogs recover in approximately ten days.
The best way to prevent or minimize infection is by vaccination. Vaccinated dogs can still become infected, transmit, shed microorganisms, and develop clinical signs. However, morbidity is typically lower in vaccinated dogs compared to unvaccinated dogs. The Bordetella vaccine can be given by injection or orally. Wise and Wonderful carries the oral vaccine. As with all of our vaccines, they are thimerosal (mercury) free.
One advantage of the oral vaccine is that it allows for the development of local immunity in the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and windpipe, which is where the infectious agents first attack. As with most vaccines, the vaccine can help to prevent infection or reduce the severity of symptoms if the dog does become infected. Since the oral vaccine is a live vaccine, it provides more rapid protection against infection, but immunity does not persist beyond one year and should be boosted annually for optimal protection.
There are additional steps you can take to protect your dog against Bordetella, including:
Keeping your dog’s living areas clean and free of bacteria can help prevent the spread of Bordetella. Regularly clean and disinfect your dog’s food and water bowls, bedding, and toys.
Try to keep your dog away from other dogs coughing or exhibiting signs of respiratory illness. Avoid areas where dogs congregate, such as dog parks or kennels.
A healthy dog is less likely to get sick. Ensure your dog is eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and is up-to-date on all vaccinations.
If your dog develops symptoms of kennel cough, such as coughing or sneezing, isolate them from other dogs to prevent the spread of the disease.
If your dog develops symptoms of kennel cough, such as coughing or sneezing, contact your veterinarian. Treatment may include antibiotics, cough suppressants, and rest. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Remember that while tracheobronchitis can be severe, it is also preventable. Taking the necessary precautions can help protect your pup from this contagious disease. Call Wise and Wonderful, your Santa Rosa, CA vet clinic, to make a wellness appointment to ask about canine influenza vaccination, or call us if you have concerns about your dog’s health — 707-546-4646
