Has your dog developed a harsh cough or runny nose after a recent boarding stay? They may have picked up a contagious respiratory infection.
Respiratory infections occur along the breathing pathway of a dog, with upper airway infections affecting the nose and throat while lower airway infections affect the lungs. The most common upper respiratory infection in dogs is called canine infectious respiratory disease complex (or CIRDC), known as kennel cough. This complex can be a combination of viral or bacterial infections, with the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica and viruses adenovirus type 1 and parainfluenza common. Symptoms include a harsh cough (often called a “honking cough”), runny nose, and sneezing. More severe symptoms may include lack of appetite, lethargy, and fever. This disease is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets and nose-to-nose contact. Pets most at risk are those who are immunocompromised (sick, young, old) or those with more frequent exposure to other dogs, including dog parks and boarding.
While upper respiratory infections tend to be mild, they can develop rapidly into a severe infection with complications like pneumonia. If your dog develops symptoms of a respiratory infection, it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian. Careful auscultation (listening to your dog’s heart and lungs) will be performed to look for signs of illness. Depending on the severity of your dog’s symptoms, a respiratory PCR test or chest X-rays may be recommended. Your dog may be started on oral antibiotics to clear the infection if warranted. Most infections clear within a week on medication, but it is advised to keep your dog away from other dogs during that time and for an additional week after being symptom-free.
To protect your dog against kennel cough and respiratory disease, bordetella vaccination and influenza vaccine should be administered annually. For dogs that board often or attend daycare, vaccinating for bordetella every 6 months may be recommended by your vet.
If you suspect your dog has kennel cough, please give us a call to schedule an appointment.
630-961-8000