Kennel cough has found its way into your neighbourhood. This raises a lot of questions about you and poor spot. Well, I am here to help answer some of those questions today!
What is Kennel Cough?
Well kennel cough, aka Bordetella, is a bacterial pathogen that can lead to respiratory disease in our canine friends. It is very easily spread throughout communities in places such as daycares, kennels, dog parks, and any other way dogs can touch noses. This is because it is airborne.
How do I know if I should bring my dog in?
If you notice your dog coughing/hacking, has discharge from their eyes or nose, is acting lethargic, or you’re noticing a lack of appetite. These are signs you should get your best friend to the vet. However if you notice the discharge is greenish in colour, they are extremely lethargic and not wanting to move, have an increased respiratory effort and have a “wet” cough you should definitely get seen sooner as these are more serious and emergent cases.
Can I prevent Kennel Cough in my dog?
Unfortunately, you can not prevent this but, there are ways to help distance the spread and lessen the symptoms. The first thing you may want to do is vaccinate for kennel cough. This does not prevent it but, it will help protect from some strains of Bordetella (kennel cough) and will help reduce symptoms to be milder. Puppies can be vaccinated as early as 8 weeks if using the oral vaccine. However, the vaccine can take 3-5 days to work. If you find kennel cough in your neighbourhood, make sure to watch your surroundings. Don’t interact with unknown dogs and keep your fur baby home from daycares and kennels until the outbreak is calmed down.
Oh no! Spot has kennel cough! Now what?
As unfortunate as this is don’t panic just yet. Make sure to go to the vet and get checked out so you can receive the proper medications to feel better if they are required. Stay away from any other dogs for 2 weeks after symptoms are completely resolved and follow the steps for helping prevent kennel cough above. Do not get vaccinated for kennel cough while spot has it. Wait until after you have been cleared to go out and do things again.
When should I not vaccinate for this?
If spot is already on antibiotics for something else you will want to wait to get this vaccine until those are completely done and out of the system. This is not because it is harmful, but due to the fact that giving it at this time will render the vaccine useless and it will do its job to protect your best friend. As well you will not want to get this vaccine if spot is already coughing or having respiratory issues, is immunocompromised, has previously had a vaccine reaction or anyone being referred for serious illness diagnosis or management.
References
Veterinary Partner: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951478
Davies: http://davies.campaignworks.biz/fact-sheets-post/kennel-cough-information-for-referring-vets-fact-sheet/