'Kennel cough' is a term which refers to respiratory infections in dogs which take place in kennels but which is contagious in other conditions as well. It is most often caused by Bordatella, a bacteria to which there is a vaccine that still works as prevention, and antibiotics that can usually treat it if diagnosed.
Instructions
1. Be aware that kennel cough is caused most often by a bacteria (Bordatella) which is contagious in dogs, and usually not spreadable to other species. Before kenneling your dog or taking him/her to doggie day care or obedience classes (or dog parties) be sure that bordatella vaccination has been given at least five days before introduction to new dogs, or is given on a yearly basis.
2. If your dog comes back from 'camp' with a cough, listen to the chest. Do you hear wheezing? Is the temperature up? (above 102.4 degrees F) Are the lymph nodes under the ears different sizes on the right vs. the left? If any of these are the case, you may have kennel cough.
3. Give the dog antibiotics. Penicillin (which you can obtain easily over the counter in many locations) won't work, as Bordatella is not sensitive to it. You need clavamox, amoxicillin or ampicillin. Older dogs are at larger risk than young adults. Consider using acupuncture treatment to tonify (stimule) immunostimulation points (St 36, LI 4,11, Gv 14). Try to stay away from benedryl, as it will hide symptoms.
4. Keep up bordatella vaccinations regularly, particularly if your dog visits with or near other canine companions.
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