KENNEL COUGH

What are the clinical signs, besides coughing? 
Clinical signs are quite variable. It is often a mild disease, but the cough may be chronic. Signs include runny eyes and nose, swollen tonsils, wheezing respiration, lack of appetite and depressed behavior. If these symptoms are severe, we reccomend coming in for an exam. What is the treatment? 
There is no specific treatment for the viral infections, but many of the more severe signs are due to bacterial involvement, particularly Bordetella. Antibiotics are useful against this bacterium, although some antibiotic resistance has been reported. Some cases require prolonged treatment, but most infections resolve within a week, three weeks at most. Mild signs may linger even when the bacteria have been eliminated.  Sometimes we will reccomend some over the counter medications or treatments, so don't hesitate to contact us with questions.   How can I prevent my dog contracting Kennel Cough?
Most vaccination programs Riverview Animal Hospital recommends contain adenovirus and parainfluenza. Bordetella vaccination is also highly recommended if your dog is frequently in contact with other dogs. How effective are these vaccines?
 Immunity, even after natural infection with respiratory viruses like parainfluenza, or bacteria such as Bordetella, is neither solid nor long-lasting. We cannot expect vaccines to do much better. Therefore it is sometimes recommended to give a booster dose, particularly of Bordetella vaccine, shortly before a scheduled period in kennels and every six months to ensure maximum protection against this troublesome infection. 

 How are the Bordetella vaccines delivered?

 
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