Kennel Cough Myths and Facts

We dread the diagnosis ‘Kennel Cough’ for our dogs but how much do you know about this disease? Alex Morrison explains kennel cough myths and facts for Pet Problems Solved…

It should come as no surprise that dogs are known to be ‘man’s best friend’. Owners go to great lengths to care for their four-legged friends, so when something doesn’t seem right it’s best for owners to know the facts and head to the vet as soon as possible if needed.

Canine cough is an illness that affects dogs and causes our furry friends to develop an uncomfortable, rasping cough.

Also known as kennel cough, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding this fairly common disease. Here are some of the common myths surrounding canine cough and facts every responsible owner should know.

What is Kennel Cough?

Canine cough is a complex condition caused by a combination of two organisms. These are the canine parainfluenza virus and the bacteria known as Bordetella bronchiseptica.

When a dog is infected with the parainfluenza virus, Bordetella bronchiseptica may take advantage and spread through the body at the same time.

The result is an unpleasant hacking that may leave your dog feeling. And, while it may not seem like a dangerous condition, it’s important to see a vet as soon as you notice any symptoms.

Facts and Myths Surrounding Kennel Cough

Even though some dogs can go their entire lives without contracting kennel cough, it’s a relatively common disease that affects canines around the world. This annoying condition causes a dry cough that lasts between 7 and 21 days, but most owners don’t know much besides that.

Here are five misconceptions surrounding kennel cough and the reality behind these myths.

Misconception 1: Bordetella Vaccines Protect Canines Against Kennel Cough

The Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccine is given to dogs to protect them against this bacteria. However, remember that canine cough is caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica and the parainfluenza virus. This means that this vaccine won’t provide protection against kennel cough, even if your dog was recently vaccinated.

Misconception 2: Dogs Only Get Sick in Dirty Kennels

While it’s true that the term “kennel cough” came from the belief that dogs only got sick in boarding kennels, this claim is far from true. Canine cough is transmitted through airborne particles that an infected dog hacks up.

In other words, our furry friends can get sick at the groomer’s, when you visit a friend that has another pup, walking down the street, or virtually in any shared space.

Misconception 3: Antibiotics are Always the Solution

Similarly to a common cold, there are many instances where canine cough goes away on its own. Now, this will depend on the dog’s diet and other important factors. You should still avoid diagnosing your own dog at all costs and visit a professional vet whenever you notice signs of kennel cough.

Misconception 4: Kennel Cough is Not a Severe Illness

The worst mistake any owner can make is assuming that kennel cough is not a severe illness. It’s true that the risks are minimal for healthy dogs that contract this disease. In these cases, you may notice mild symptoms that don’t seem threatening.

However, puppies, older dogs, and canines that have autoimmune conditions may develop complications like pneumonia and other severe conditions that could end up fatal.

Misconception 5: Dogs Can Only Catch Kennel Cough Once

A lot of dog owners are under the impression that their pups can only catch kennel cough once. The misconception stems from the fact that dogs develop resistance to the virus after they have contracted it. Nevertheless, this only lasts for 6 to 12 months after infection, which unfortunately means that your dog may very well get canine cough more than once.

Find the Best Care for Your Pup

Kennel cough can be very uncomfortable for dogs, so knowing the facts will help you understand what your canine might be going through. That said, you should always consult with a professional and make sure that the condition is not evolving into something more complicated.

About the author:
Alex Morrison has been a SEO Expert in Melbourne for over 10 years. In this time he has worked with a range of businesses giving him an in depth understanding of many different industries including residential cleaning, financial support and health care. As the owner of Integral Media he is now utilising his knowledge and experience with his rapidly increasing client portfolio to help them achieve their business goals.