Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis or canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is a highly contagious respiratory illness that affects dogs. This condition involves inflammation of a dog’s voice box and windpipe, leading to a distinctive cough. While typically not life-threatening in healthy adult dogs, it can lead to more serious complications in puppies, older dogs, or those with weakened immune systems.
Primary Causes
Kennel cough is often caused by a combination of bacterial and viral agents rather than a single pathogen. The bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica is frequently identified as a primary cause, particularly in younger dogs. This bacterium can bind directly to cilia, small hair-like structures lining the respiratory tract, impairing their function within hours of contact.
Several viruses also contribute significantly to kennel cough, often making dogs more susceptible to bacterial infections. Canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV) is a common viral culprit that can cause respiratory symptoms. Canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) is another frequent viral contributor, typically spread through coughing. Canine herpesvirus can also be involved, particularly in very young puppies.
Modes of Transmission
Kennel cough pathogens spread easily among dogs through several routes. Airborne transmission occurs when an infected dog coughs, sneezes, or barks, releasing microscopic respiratory droplets into the air. These droplets can travel several feet, allowing healthy dogs to inhale the infectious agents without direct contact.
Direct contact is another common mode of spread, such as during nose-to-nose greetings or shared play. Dogs can be contagious even before showing symptoms, making control of spread challenging.
Indirect transmission occurs when dogs come into contact with contaminated surfaces, also known as fomites. Shared items like food and water bowls, toys, bedding, or even a person’s hands can harbor infectious agents. Some organisms can survive in the environment for weeks.
Environments of Risk
Dogs are most likely to contract kennel cough in environments with many other canines. High-density settings like boarding facilities, doggy daycare centers, and animal shelters are common places for outbreaks. The close proximity of dogs in these locations facilitates rapid spread of airborne droplets and direct contact.
Other public areas like dog parks, grooming salons, and dog shows also present increased risk due to frequent dog interactions. Factors such as stress, poor air circulation, and suboptimal ventilation can heighten a dog’s susceptibility to infection. Even brief encounters with infected dogs can lead to transmission.
Early Indicators
The incubation period for kennel cough ranges from two to 14 days following exposure before symptoms appear. However, dogs can be contagious during this period, even without visible signs of illness.
The most recognizable early symptom is a sudden, persistent, dry, hacking cough, often described as a “honking” sound. This characteristic cough may worsen with excitement or exercise and can sometimes be followed by gagging or retching. Other initial signs include sneezing, a runny nose, and mild eye discharge. In some cases, dogs might also exhibit slight lethargy or a decreased appetite, though many remain active and well in early stages.