It is uncommon for humans to contract kennel cough from dogs. Though Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacterial agent involved, can cause human respiratory issues, such instances are rare. Healthy individuals face a negligible risk of infection. The primary concern remains with the health of the canine population.
What is Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that affects dogs. It is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses. The most common bacterial culprit is Bordetella bronchiseptica, often with viruses like canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus, or canine distemper virus.
This respiratory disease spreads rapidly among dogs, especially in crowded environments like boarding kennels, dog parks, or animal shelters. Transmission occurs through airborne droplets when an infected dog coughs or sneezes, direct contact like nose-to-nose greetings, or contact with contaminated surfaces like shared food or water bowls. The incubation period for kennel cough ranges from two to 14 days following exposure.
The most noticeable symptom of kennel cough in dogs is a strong, persistent cough, often described as a harsh, dry hacking or “honking” sound. While many dogs appear otherwise healthy, some may experience a runny nose, sneezing, or eye discharge. In more severe cases, especially in puppies, elderly dogs, or those with weakened immune systems, lethargy, loss of appetite, or a mild fever may occur.
Can Humans Get Kennel Cough
The risk of humans contracting kennel cough from dogs is low, limited to individuals with severely compromised immune systems. While Bordetella bronchiseptica, a bacterium closely related to the one causing whooping cough in humans, is a common cause of kennel cough in dogs, human infections are rare. Most reported human cases involve individuals with significant underlying health issues.
Those at heightened risk include people undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, or individuals with conditions like HIV/AIDS or cystic fibrosis. For these individuals, Bordetella bronchiseptica can lead to more serious respiratory problems, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. However, even in these rare instances, the symptoms in humans are general respiratory complaints, not the characteristic “kennel cough” heard in dogs.
While a dog may shed Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria for several weeks after vaccination or for one to three months following an actual infection, the documented cases of human transmission are scarce. If a healthy human acquires the bacterium, it may exist as a commensal or colonizer in the respiratory tract without causing symptoms. For the general healthy population, direct transmission from a dog is not a significant concern.
Protecting Your Family and Pet
Preventing kennel cough in dogs is the most effective way to minimize any risk to humans. Vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus is a primary preventive measure, significantly reducing the severity of the disease and its spread among dogs. Puppies receive their initial vaccine at 6-8 weeks, with a booster after three to four weeks, while adult dogs require annual vaccinations, especially if they frequently interact with other dogs.
Avoiding contact with sick dogs and crowded environments like dog parks or boarding facilities where the infection can easily spread helps. Good hygiene practices, such as regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, toys, and food bowls, can reduce the presence of infectious agents. If a dog exhibits symptoms of kennel cough, isolate them from other pets to prevent further transmission within the household.
Pet owners should seek veterinary attention if their dog develops a persistent, hacking cough, especially if accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, or a fever. Most cases of kennel cough resolve on their own, but a veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis, rule out more serious conditions like canine distemper or heartworm disease, and recommend appropriate supportive care or medication if needed. General human hygiene, such as washing hands after handling pets, is always a good practice, but it is not a specific defense against kennel cough due to the low transmission risk to healthy individuals.