Dogs should stay isolated if they are infected with kennel cough.
Kennel cough refers to a number of upper respiratory infections that can be caused by both viruses and bacteria. These infections are highly contagious and common among dogs. While many cases of kennel cough will clear up on their own, antibiotics such as doxycycline are often prescribed to clear up persistent infections and severe symptoms.
Causes of Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as tracheobronchitis, refers to a highly contagious upper respiratory infection in dogs. The most common causes of kennel cough are the parainfluenza virus and Bordetella bacteria, though other viral infections can also cause kennel cough, including canine distemper and adenovirus.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
The main symptom of kennel cough is a dry cough, similar to the sound of a dog with something caught in his throat. Watery nasal discharge, retching, slight fever and lack of appetite are also possible symptoms. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, a call to the vet's office is recommended, but generally the infection will clear up on its own. If more severe symptoms appear and the cough lasts for an extended period of time or is so frequent that your dog cannot rest, eat or drink water, medication may be necessary. Symptoms to watch for include depression, lethargy, pneumonia, high fever or a yellow/green nasal discharge.
Treating Kennel Cough with Doxycycline
More severe cases of kennel cough may require medication, such as an antibiotic like doxycycline. This option is only helpful if the Bordetella bacteria have caused the infection rather than a virus, or if secondary infections have developed, such as pink eye. Doxycycline is also helpful to help prevent the infection from spreading to other dogs in a home with multiple dogs, kennel or dog show. Antibiotics like doxycycline must be administered for the full prescription period in order to remain effective.
Home Remedies
While antibiotics like doxycycline may be recommended by your veterinarian, other remedies to clear up kennel cough symptoms, especially the dry cough, are also helpful. Honey on bread has been known to help control coughing, while over-the-counter cough suppressants may also be used. ALWAYS check with your vet before giving any medication, including over-the-counter drugs, to your dog. Soft or wet food is also helpful in order to ensure your dog is getting the right nutrients and is easier to swallow than dry food for dogs with a sore, dry throat.
Preventing Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is highly contagious, so separate healthy pets from infected dogs.
Kennel cough may be prevented by vaccinating your puppy, especially if he is going to be in contact with other dogs. While vaccines can help prevent kennel cough or make the symptoms less severe, vaccinations do not offer complete protection from the infection. Keeping an infected dog isolated is the best way to prevent the spread of this highly contagious illness. Good air ventilation, clean kennels and food and water bowls will also help prevent infection from spreading.
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