What is Kennel Cough in Dogs?
Kennel Cough is a contagious infection that affects the respiratory tract of dogs. It can be caused by several different microorganisms, such as the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica and/or the parainfluenza virus. It's also known as "shelter cough" because it's a disease that affects the respiratory tract and causes intense coughing.
What are the symptoms of shelter disease in dogs?
The clinical features of shelter disease can vary. The disease is usually mild and persists for 1-3 weeks. Common clinical signs include a loud cough, often described as 'goose barking'. Other symptoms are usually as follows:
- A dry and raspy cough
- Vomiting or gagging
- Runny nose
- Eye discharge
- Letarji
- Loss of appetite
How is Kennel Cough Diagnosed in Dogs?
Kennel cough is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and the dog's history. The veterinarian may perform a physical examination to look for signs of inflammation or infection in the dog's respiratory tract. If necessary, x-rays or laboratory tests may also be used to diagnose the disease.
- Clinical Signs: The most common symptom of kennel cough is a dry, whistling sound. Other signs include vomiting, runny nose and eyes, lethargy and loss of appetite.
- Physical Examination: The veterinarian may perform a physical examination to look for signs of inflammation or infection in the dog's respiratory tract.
- Laboratory Tests: The veterinarian may take a pharynx (throat) sample to confirm the diagnosis. This sample detects the presence of bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria or other pathogens.
- X-ray: If suspected, a chest x-ray may be ordered to check for any abnormalities in the dog's lungs.
How to Treat Shelter Disease in Dogs?
The treatment of shelter sickness varies depending on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, the immune system can handle the infection on its own and the symptoms may resolve in about two weeks, while in more serious cases antibiotics or cough suppressants may be prescribed.
How is Shelter Sickness Transmitted in Dogs?
Shelter disease is usually caused by adenovirus type-2 (different from adenovirus type-1, which causes infectious hepatitis), parainfluenza virus, canine coronavirus and bordetella bronsheptica bacteria. These microorganisms are released into the air when an infected dog coughs, sneezes or barks and are transmitted to other dogs through inhalation. These microorganisms can also be transmitted through surfaces and objects
The Importance of Vaccination in Shelter Disease
The shelter cough vaccine can be administered to puppies and adult dogs. This vaccine helps prevent the spread and destruction of this disease, also known as shelter cough
Can Shelter Sickness in Dogs Transmitted to Humans?
Although the risk of transmission of shelter disease to humans is very low, it can pose a risk to people with weak immune systems or children.
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