Reprinted from Bulltales, Phoenix Bulldog Club, Jan 2000,
Editor Kim West-Meredith
BordeteRa (Kennel Cough) in dogs is similar to the common cold in humans. Although this disease is
rarely fatal, it can lead to other diseases such as pneumonia, which can shorten your dog's life. Kennel
cough occurs more commonly in puppies and young adult dogs, and in dogs that have recently been in
shelters or exposed to many other dogs. Since an airborne virus causes kennel cough, normal cleaning and
surface disinfecting cannot eliminate the cause. Kennel Cough can occur with Distemper, Adenovirus
Type Two, Para influenza and other respiratory infections. Antibiotics can prevent or cure a secondary
infection. Cough suppressants can be used to control the cough. To help prevent pneumonia or other
diseases, dogs with Kennel Cough should be kept in a warm environment. Keep infected dogs away from
other dogs to prevent further transmission of any disease. Like the common cold, Kennel Cough cannot be
cured but it has to run its course. Symptoms include harsh dry (honking) cough that is often followed by
gagging and coughing up foamv mucous, with nasal discharge of clear turning to milky white, and then to
green. Most infected dogs do NOT have a fever and otherwise the dog appears alert and generally healthy.
Vaccination is minimally effective. There are some 40 plus strains of Kennel Cough and the vaccination
provides protection against approximately 12. However, ff your dog is to be shown, kenneled, or around a
number of other dogs it is wise to have your dog vaccinated. The intranasal vaccine is pretty fast acting,
providing some protection in as little as 5 days. The indictable version of the vaccine may provide longer
immunity. Some vets use both to get maximum protection. Please do not assume that any cough is Kennel
Cough. If your dog has a fever, is less active than normal, has a decreased appetite, has a discharge from
the eyes and nose, has difficulty breathing or is older than 3 years, the above named symptoms are signs of
a more serious problem and you need to see a veterinarian as soon as possible.