Kennel Cough Symptoms and Treatments
Your vet knows its official name is canine infectious respiratory disease or infectious tracheobronchitis. All you know is your best friend has a frightening cough and you feel horrible about it. We understand! None of us enjoy watching our beloved pets suffer. We have good news about your dog's cough. If it's kennel cough, your veterinary team can help. Starting with a brief discussion about what kennel cough is and common symptoms, we'll share our best treatment and prevention methods. Take a deep breath, cuddle your dog, and read more here about kennel cough.
What Is Kennel Cough?
Many dogs get kennel cough at least once. It's a common respiratory system infection caused by either bacteria or a virus. Sometimes it's a combination of multiple bacteria and viruses. One common bacterium that causes kennel cough is Bordetella bronchiseptica. A weakened immune system can make a dog more susceptible to Bordetella. If your dog has kennel cough, the more likely cause is a virus. For a more detailed discussion of viruses that can cause kennel cough, talk with veterinary staff the next time you schedule pet boarding.
Does Your Dog Have Kennel Cough Symptoms?
Have you ever heard your dog sneeze or do the reverse sneeze? It sounds cute, but most dog owners feel at least a little nervous when their pup starts sneezing. You might even wonder if the dog has something more serious going on. The noise a dog makes when it has kennel cough doesn't sound anything like a sneeze, although sneezing is sometimes a symptom. Instead, it's a forceful cough and makes you wonder if the dog has something caught in his throat. Sometimes a dog with kennel cough has a runny nose or a bit of eye discharge. What you won't see is a listless dog with a poor appetite.
The Spread of Kennel Cough
Dogs and kids have something in common. They both get sick from being around other sick dogs or people. Many dogs come home with kennel cough after spending time at a kennel or animal shelter. Did you know it can also spread at pet shows? Dogs cough, the bacteria and viruses circulate in the air, and the infection moves from dog to dog. If your dog shares toys, feeding dishes, or blankets with a dog who has kennel cough, you can count on them getting it too.
Your Vet Knows How to Treat Kennel Cough
When you bring your pup in for their pet check-up in St. Johns, FL, talk with your vet about your kennel cough concerns. They'll reassure you that most dogs get over it in about three weeks. Sometimes vets do prescribe antibiotics, but only if they suspect a bacterial infection. One thing you can do for your dog to protect them from some of the viruses that cause kennel cough is make sure they get their vaccinations and their boosters. At Forever Vets Animal Hospital, we love when dogs visit with us for their vaccinations! We'll even help their owners get them scheduled.
To learn more about pet services offered by Forever Vets Animal Hospital, including check-ups, dental care, and grooming, contact us today. We have 8 convenient locations and extended hours. Serving Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Orlando, St. Johns, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and more.
