What exactly is kennel cough? Let me fill you in on something. “Kennel cough” is an overused and inappropriately used term, even by veterinary medical professionals
Unfortunately, your beloved pooch can’t exactly practice social distancing, and crowded areas like animal shelters, boarding kennels, and dog parks can be hotspots for this illness.
The disease is incredibly contagious, so much so that even a visit to the vet can expose your dog to it. That’s why you and your pup often get whisked to a private exam room straightaway rather than sitting in the crowded waiting area.
The tell-tale sign of kennel cough in dogs is a persistent, raspy, dry cough caused by pathogens that inflame the airways. These coughing fits are particularly common at night.
Usually, vets can make a presumptive diagnosis of kennel cough by observing the dog’s symptoms, medical history, and response to treatment. It’s not always necessary to identify the specific virus causing the cough.
Most of the time, tests aren’t necessary if your dog has a mild, weaker form of CIRD. However, sometimes chest x-rays and other tests are required in the following situations:
If your dog has kennel cough, it’s best to keep them away from other pets and make an appointment with your veterinarian. Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatories, cough suppressants, and steroids to help soothe your furry friend’s symptoms.
If your dog’s diarrhea is acute and goes away with a temporary prescription high-fiber diet, you may be all set! But if it re-develops and your dog gets sicker, your vet may need to do a thorough blood work to rule out medical problems. This typically includes:
If your dog sleeps with you, consider using a humidifier in the bedroom to help hydrate the nasal passages. This will make it easier to wipe away the nose crusts!
As CIRD is highly infectious, you want to keep your dog away from dog parks, doggy daycare, kennels, veterinary hospitals, etc. In fact, please don’t take your dog off your property for a full 2-6 weeks, as the causes of CIRD are so contagious to other dogs!