Treatment For Kennel Cough

Find the right treatment for kennel cough. There are many things to be aware of and time is of the essence. Know what questions to ask the vet and how this is transmitted.

Most cases of kennel cough are not serious and usually run their course over a two week period of time.

Older dogs and puppies are more likely to fall victim to kennel cough just like babies and senior citizens are more at risk for catching the flu and other respiratory diseases.

We will discuss the treatment for kennel cough in this article.

Many kennel cough symptoms are similar to simple influenza that both dogs and cats can get that is similar to bird flu.

Kennel cough can be diagnosed from a hacking dry cough that almost sounds like whooping cough in humans. Retching or dry heaves and actual vomiting accompanies the dry hard cough.

Unless the case of kennel cough is more serious you will not notice any change in your pet’s eating, sleeping or activity levels.

Please make sure that you take note of any changes in eating and drinking behaviors so that you can relay the information to your vet.

Kennel cough is passed on through close contact with other animals that have the disease.

If you have not had your dog boarded, had your dog perform in a dog show or just got your dog from the pound, pet store or animal shelter the symptoms you are seeing may be a simple case of the flu.

These symptoms can be caused by several viruses (reovirus, canine adenovirus, and canine herpes virus) and bacteria (Bordetella bronchisepta, parainfluenza and microsepta). The disease is usually the result of a combination of more than one of these factors.

Many people are looking to avoid chemical means of treating themselves or their pets.

The standard preventative treatment in the past has been an annual 5 way vaccine designed to immunize your pet against the factors above.

There are a number of holistic medicines that are made from natural ingredients that have no clinical testing to back up their claims. Anecdotal information leads one to believe that these treatments may help in some cases.

The main treatment for kennel cough for animals that are alert, active and on their feed is to let the disease run its course.

If your pet shows changes in activity and eating disorders, prednisone is often prescribed to reduce the inflammation and irritation caused by the coughing.

In more serious cases cough suppressants and bronchodilaters may be called for. If the disease moves into a more serious form of pneumonia an antibiotic treatment is in order.

RECOMMENDED READING

Pet Medical Insurance--"Obtaining Pet Medical Insurance is a great way to help defray unexpected costs for your pet. Read here on how to find the correct insurance carrier and the necessary steps to sign up."

Why Dogs Eat Poop -- "In this article you'll find out why dogs eat poop. This behavior, known medically as coprophagia, can be frustrating. If you understand it, you'll have a better chance of fixing the problem. Twenty reasons why dogs eat poop are provided to you."

Kennel Cough--"Kennel cough is a very contagious dog illness and is an inflammation of the upper respiratory system. The problems are caused by viral infections that are spread via contact or coughing. Read more about this serious condition and how to treat it."

DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.