| Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis (Parainfluenza, Bordetella Bronchiseptica) Known as "kennel cough" in dogs. |
| Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis is a common disease of the trachea, and bronchi. Infectious Tracheobronchitis in dogs is also known as “Kennel Cough”. This disease is complex, and caused by more than one infectious agent. Dogs of all ages are at risk. |
- Bordetella Bronchiseptica is the bacteria known to cause kennel
cough in many animals including cats and dogs. - Parainfluenza is a virus that is also a part of the Bordetella infection.
This virus spreads rapidly by direct contact. - Other infectious organisms can cause secondary infections
- Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease located in the air way.
- A secondary infection may cause chronic bronchitis
- Kennel cough suppresses the immune system, causing
complications such as weight loss, diarrhea, and anorexia
| Disease Facts |
| Clinical signs of Infectious Tracheobronchitis |
- Productive or non productive cough
- Gagging
- Retching
- Nasal discharge may occur
- Cough can easily be induced by palpation of the trachea, collar, or
hyper activity.
| Transmission |
- Affected dogs are first seen with sudden onset of severe cough.
- Recent history of boarding, hospitalization, or exposure to puppies
from pet stores, and humane societies. - Viral infection spread aerosol, very contagious especially under
stressed conditions.
| Treatment / Prevention |
- The disease usually resolves on its own regardless of treatment plan.
No antibiotic treatment is known to rid the Bordetella organisms. Though
antibiotics may be necessary to protect against other upper respirotory
illness that could be brought on by the Bordetella organisms. Cough
suppressant may also be prescribed to help with the coughing. - Prevention is easily done by keeping up on vaccinations. The
distemper vaccination includes Parainfluenza protection. Distemper
vaccines can be given as early as 8, 12, 14 weeks of age, then
boostered annually. - Dogs at high risk for the disease should get intranasal Bordetella
vaccination, two weeks prior to being kenneled, then every six months.
| Kennel Cough or Bordetella |
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| 763-689-0095 |
| Cambridge VetCare Animal Clinic, PA Cambridge, MN |