As we soak up the last few days of summer before returning to our fall routines, many folks will be traveling and some may be boarding their pets. Pet owners need to be aware that this is a heightened time for pets to be exposed to kennel cough.
Kennel cough, also known as Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex, is a highly contagious infection of the respiratory tract. It is an infectious bronchitis in dogs, and a variety of different bacteria and viruses can cause the illness. Summer brings an increase in socializing and travel, leading to more opportunities for exposure.
Kennel cough is airborne, which is why it can spread quickly. It is commonly found in places where dogs are in close contact, such as boarding facilities, dog day cares, dog parks and even at the groomer.
When an infected dog coughs, droplets travel through the air and can infect other dogs close by. It can also be spread through direct contact with contaminated objects such as food and water bowls, toys, bedding and other shared objects.
Symptoms can appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure. The most prominent symptom is a forceful, hacking cough. Other symptoms may include:
- Nasal discharge
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
Unvaccinated dogs, puppies or immune-compromised canines that contract kennel cough are at risk of developing more severe infections, such as pneumonia.
Cats can also catch kennel cough, although they are less susceptible to the illness than dogs.
There is no single treatment for kennel cough, but some medications may be prescribed to keep the dog comfortable. Most dogs recover on their own without treatment within 10 to 20 days. During this time, the dog should be kept calm to avoid getting excited and provoking a coughing episode. All items the dog has come in contact with should also be disinfected using a solution of bleach diluted in water.
One way to minimize the risk of contracting kennel cough is to make sure pets are up to date on vaccinations before boarding them. Day cares and boarding facilities should require proof of vaccinations. The Bordetella vaccine, often referred to as the kennel cough vaccine, is part of the yearly vaccinations my dog receives.
If your pet develops kennel cough, it’s important to keep him isolated from other pets to avoid spreading the infection. Avoid the sharing of food and water bowls, bedding and toys until the infection is cleared. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly when handling an exposed pet before touching other pets or their belongings.
Ask your boarding facility, dog day care and groomer what policies and procedures they have in place to keep all pets healthy during their stay.
If your dog has a loud hacking cough, it could be kennel cough. A visit to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is recommended right away.
Events
Aug. 16: A PetSmart dog days of summer adoption event will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at 6851 Veterans Blvd., Metairie. Meet adorable puppies and dogs from ARNO. All approved adopters will receive a coupon book from PetSmart and a new bed from ARNO. For more info, email info@animalrescueneworleans.org.
Race to the rescue: Registration is open for the NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K Run/Walk on Oct. 12. Run through Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery in New Orleans and raise money for animal rescue organizations including Animal Rescue New Orleans, Take Paws, Trampled Rose Rescue, Zeus’ Rescues and The Inner Pup — Education and Prevention Services. Learn more and register now at noladogsrace.com.