LoveToKnow Dogs:Custom Kennel Cough Advice

From LoveToKnow Dogs

Past Questions

Question: We just recently adopted a puppy at the SPCA. He was supposed to get neutered today, but they found out he has a cough so they are keeping him for ten days to give him some medication. I do have another dog at home, but I want to visit my new puppy at the shelter. Can I go see him, or will I spread the cough to my other dog at home? - Posted by: snookie5605@yahoo.com

Answer: Hi Courtney,

Congratulations on the adoption. I realize you are hitting a bump in the road right now, but I am sure everything will be right soon.

The cough you are describing is probably kennel cough. This virus is very common in shelters, but thankfully it is fairly easy to handle. Kennel cough usually just has to run its course, but secondary bacterial infections can set up housekeeping in the lungs, so the shelter vet is likely administering an antibiotic as a precaution.

The virus is highly contagious, so you do run a chance of bringing it back to your other dog if you visit the pup. If you had the puppy at home at all, there is also a chance your dog was already exposed. The virus lives on surfaces like floors, food and water bowels, bedding, etc.

If you do decide to visit your puppy, take a few precautions. Wear a top shirt you can easily remove and place in a plastic bag when you leave the shelter. You can launder it once you get home. You will also want to have a spray can of disinfectant waiting outside your house so you can spray your shoes to reduce chances of transmitting the virus. Finally, wash your hands thoroughly before you handle anything or touch your other dog. These precautions should greatly reduce the chance that your older pet will get kennel cough, but they are not a guarantee.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your new pup is soon well and home with you. - posted by:Kelly

Question: Hi! We have one-year-old Bulldog called Tammi. We think she may have kennel cough again, only this time she's not coughing. Today, she has been sick most of the day, expelling a thick throthy white substance accompanied by shallow, quick panting. She has no energy. Our daughter has a Bulldog too, and hers is showing the same symptoms. The vet said he thinks it's kennel cough again! Do you think this could be kennel cough but a differant strain? Hope you can let me know as soon as possible. We also have a nine-year-old Staffie; will he get it too? Many thanks. - Posted by: lindyloo_241@hotmail.com

Answer: Hello Mrs. Awde,

This could well be another round of kennel cough. Your dog's immune system could have still been weak from fighting off the last bout when another strain took advantage of the situation and moved in. Since Kennel Cough is highly contagious, your Staffie may contract the virus as well.

For the time being, I recommend you isolate the sick dogs, and feed and water the Staffie from separate dishes. You'll need to wash your hands frequently, especially after caring for the sick dogs, and be sure to keep the floors mopped so your dog doesn't pick up the virus from there.

All of that said, the thickness of the mucus your dogs are expelling is of some concern. You may already be aware that kennel cough can leave a dog open to secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia. I think it would be wise to have your vet examine each dog's lungs to see if an antibiotic is required to treat a secondary opportunistic infection.

Thanks for your questions, and I do hope that all your dogs are soon on the road to recovery. Best wishes. - posted by:Kelly

Question: Hello, I know you can buy vaccines at stores and they are much cheaper than going to the vet. Is it safe to use these and to vaccinate your dogs yourself? I am particularly wondering about Kennel Jec 2 for bordetella. I have a friend whose dog has a bad case of this currently and my dogs often play with this one. They have not been around this dog for quite some time, so I am not concerned that they are currently infected, but I am worried about the next time they have a play date. It has been about one year since my dogs had this vaccine at the vet. - Posted by: msms13@msn.com

Answer: Hi Megan,

Yes, you can vaccinate your dogs at home yourself, just make sure you keep records in case you're ever asked to provide them, as well as the box the vaccines came in. They are very safe when administered properly, and suppliers such as Doctors Foster and Smith even provide directions on how to prepare and inject the vaccines. The main risk is the possibility that a dog will have a reaction to the vaccine, in which case you either have to administer a shot of epinephrine or rush your dog to the vet. It should be noted that most state authorities require the rabies vaccine to be administered and recorded by your vet.

Fortunately, kennel cough vaccines, at least the ones I've used in the past, are administered nasally, so you don't have to inject with a needle. I'm not familiar with the brand you mention, but if your dogs had this brand before, it should be fine.

For the time being, I wouldn't schedule any play dates with the dog that has kennel cough. The virus takes over three weeks to run its course, and it is highly contagious. Since there are so many viruses that come under the umbrella of kennel cough, it's highly likely that your dogs could pick up the infection. One vaccine can't possibly cover every strain of the virus, so vets tend to vaccinate against the most common ones such as Bordetella bronchiseptica.

I hope you find this information useful, and thanks for your question. :) - posted by:Kelly

Question: One of my dogs has a respiratory infection that the vet hasn't named, but it is being treated by antibiotics since it has gone on for over four weeks. My dog is regularly vaccinated against kennel cough, but I suspect the infection is the kennel cough complex. She doesn't cough as much as reverse sneeze since she has a lot of mucous in her nasal passages. She is very slow to improve and was due to go into a dog boarding kennel in four weeks, but I am assuming she will not be fit enough by that time to go. How long is she likely to be infectious, and when will she be fit enough for the kennel? - Posted by: eefrain@btinternet.com

Answer: Hi Eileen,

I'm sorry to hear how unwell your dog has been. First of all, this could still have started as a case of kennel cough even though your dog has been vaccinated. There are many virus strains that cause the same type of illness, and the Bordetella vaccine doesn't cover all of them.

Typically these viruses run their course in two to three weeks. However, the immune system can be so busy fighting off the virus that a bacterial infection has the chance to sneak in and take hold. This is usually the point where a vet will begin to administer antibiotics.

Your dog should begin to show signs of the major symptoms abating after several days on the medication, although it will take the full round of antibiotics to hopefully cure the problem. However, even after the illness has run its course, your dog's immune system will need time to recover and regain full strength. Kennel cough is extremely contagious, so watch your other dog closely for signs of the illness. Sending your dog to the kennel too soon could result in a relapse. Since you are already in contact with your vet, it would be best to ask for his/her recommendation on long you should wait before resuming your plans to kennel your dog.

In the meantime, I think you will find the information in our article about Home Treatment for Kennel Cough useful. There are tips on ways to relieve your dog's symptoms and help her feel better until the infection has cleared.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your dog is back in shape very soon. - posted by:Kelly

Question: Hello, we have a 12 1/2-year-old Golden Retreiver that has been in great health. Two weeks ago she got some shots at the vet, a rabies vaccine and whatever else was required. For the last five days she has had a lot of mucous build up and throws it up constantly. It is very thick and mostly clear mucous. My dog wants to eat, but cannot because of this problem. We are going to the vet again today because they have been treating her for kennel cough for three days, but her symptoms are getting worse. We can hear fluid build up in her breathing. My husband and I do not think it is Kennel Cough. What do you think? We have gardners so could this be related to fertilizer? Could it be a tumor? Please advise because we are now very worried! Thank you. - Posted by: susan_quinn8@yahoo.com

Answer: Hi Susan,

I'm not a vet, but it sounds like your dog picked up something at your last vet visit. Did you ever hear your dog cough in the beginning? Does a round of coughing wind up with your dog expelling the mucous? If so, your dog may have started out with the kennel cough virus, but may now have a secondary bacterial infection in the lungs. From what you're describing, I think it's possible that the respiratory infection has progressed into pneumonia. Older dogs such as yours are more susceptible to this kind of illness. Due to the seriousness of the situation, I'm very glad that you already have another vet appointment. Your vet will listen to your dog's lungs to figure out just how extensive the infection has become and likely put your dog on antibiotics to rid the infection. Be prepared that your vet may also want to keep your dog at the clinic a day or to for closer monitoring and IV fluids to help thin out the mucous so it can be expelled easier.

Thanks for your question. I'll keep your dog in my thoughts, and I hope she recovers quickly. - posted by:Kelly

Question: My four-year-old Bichon/Cocker Spaniel mix has been breathing oddly lately. When relaxed and just laying, she needs to keep her mouth open slightly, never just having it closed. She also has alot of "spit" around her mouth, and moves her tongue around alot. Could she possibly have a cold? It is deep winter here, and the kids have colds right now. Her eyes also seem blood shot. thanks - Posted by: smsutkaytis@roadrunner.com

Answer: Hi Susan,

I'm not a vet, but it does sound as though your dog has some type of respiratory problem going on. This could be the onset of a case of kennel cough, which is very contagious between dogs, or it could be a bacterial infection.

I would advise keeping a close eye on your dog for now, and make sure she drinks plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated. This will keep her mucous secretions more fluid and less sticky. If you notice her symptoms worsen, it would be a good idea to take her to the vet for a thorough chest exam.

In the meantime, I think you might find the following articles helpful.

Best wishes for your dog's quick recovery. - posted by:Kelly

Question: How fatal Is respiratory infection? How can any dog or my dog developed this infection? Was it because of it being outside in a cold environment? Besides a vet, is there any other ways of helping my dog? - Posted by: krnxlil_b8ll3r@hotmail.com

Answer: Hi Paul,

Please refer to my original answer because it essentially answers your follow up questions. When the body is fighting to stay warm, it doesn't have the energy to fight off opportunistic infections. Please take your dog to the vet. - posted by:Kelly

Question: I have a Yorkshire Terrier. It is less then two years old, but is big for its type. My dog is not a house dog, we been actually letting it sleep and play outside only. Recently, my dog has been coughing at time, which appears like it gots something up its throat and only when we run together really fast. And also he hasnt been eating his normal portions of food or drinking his water. We feed him Ribs from a resturants time to time, and i do see some broken pieces from the bone. And the thing that worries me the most is that he appears like he needs water with his tongue sticking out, and breathes kinda quickly. Luckily he is very optimistic and happy to see me or anyother human beings but very few times he gets lazy. Have any ideas? Thanks A MILLIOON!! - Posted by: krnxlil_b8ll3r@hotmail.com

Answer: Hello Paul,

Yorkshire Terriers were not bred to be fulltime outside dogs. They do not carry enough body fat or coat to protect them from the cold. From the symptoms you're describing, it sounds like your dog has developed a respiratory infection.

I'd like to make two suggestions. First, take your dog to the vet for an examination. It's very likely that he needs antibiotics to keep the infection from progressing into pneumonia. Second, bring the dog inside to live. Yorkies were developed to be inside companion dogs. If you're unable to keep the dog in your home, perhaps it would be better to give him to someone who is able to keep him inside. There are other breeds that are more suitable to outside life, such as Alaskan Malamutes. Even so, be sure to provide adequate shelter, such as a dog house, and check the water to be sure it hasn't frozen over during cold weather.

Thanks for your question, and please take my suggestions to heart. - posted by:Kelly

Question: Hello Kelly, My husband I recently (1/11/08) adopted a four-month-old Shih Tzu puppy that was rescued from a puppy mill. He has had his vaccinations, but they didn't give him the Bordetella Vaccine. When we got home he started showing symptoms of kennel cough. To make things worse, we had a lot of dust in our house from a recent home improvement project. We've gotten the dust taken care of and are following the already listed advice from previous questions. I have done some additional research via the web, but so many sites show conflicting information. His appetite is good, drinks his water and he seems to be happy and adjusting well; however he has the frequent coughing spells, intermittent runny nose and today (day three of symptoms) he has been sleeping most of the day. Because of his age and (most likely) stressful history ,I am concerned it will turn into something more serious; however, I'm also trying to avoid a huge vet bill (but will definitely take him in if needed). In addition to the home remedies you have listed, I found something on KC Defense and am wondering if we could try that first? How long is too long before taking him to the vet? Also, we have a 7 year old cat… I know kennel cough can be spread to dogs, but how about cats? Thanks so much! -Jennifer - Posted by: jennifercmarshall@gmail.com

Answer: Hi Jennifer,

I'm sorry to hear your puppy has kennel cough, but it's not usual given his background. It is also possible that your cat could contract the kennel cough.

Because he is so young, I would feel better about it if you did consult your vet. Your puppy has such small lungs that a secondary respiratory infection could advance very quickly. Although there is probably no harm in using a homeopathic remedy, these products do need to build up in the system with repeated doses. Your puppy might not have that much time to spare.

As for your other question about the veterinary meds harming the immune system, I don't really believe that is always the case. Although it would be better to strengthen the immune system so it could fight off the infection by itself, I wouldn't hesitate to give an antibiotic if the dog was growing sicker.

All things considered, I think you should call your vet.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your puppy recovers very quickly. - posted by:Kelly

Question: Hi,I have German Shepherd pup that is two months and eight days old. For the past two days she has not been in good health. Her appetite is low, her eyes are watering, and she's sneezing and attempting to vomit. She also has a dry cough and cold, and sleeps throughout the day. Her stools and urine are normal. She has not yet been vaccinated. She needs to be fed. At present, we are giving her calcium, seven seas, ampoxin 125 mg, glucose water and gripe water for medications. Her meals consist of milk, bread, sooje, rice, carrots, green peas, beet root, boiled egg and German Shepherd Junior 30 (Royal Canin). Can you please tell me what should I should do about her diet and what type of sickness she is facing? - Posted by: prunella_11@yahoo.co.in

Answer: Hi Prunella,

It sounds to me like your puppy has a case of kennel cough. In its current condition you wouldn't be able to begin vaccinations right now, but this should be taken care of once the puppy is well again. I think you'll find the following article helpful.

Additionally, I recommend that you see a vet. Kennel Cough is hardest on young puppies and senior dogs, and secondary bacterial infections are more likely to set in.

As for your dog's diet, I would cut out the bread and milk. There are adequate carbs in the Royal Canin, and dogs do not easily digest cow's milk. Milk can also encourage more mucous production. Over supplementation of calcium is not very useful.

Thanks for your question, and I hope your puppy is better soon. - posted by:Kelly

Question: Hi, I have a two-year-old yellow Lab that is normally healthy, happy and very active. The last two days he has been acting sick. The first day he was sneezing a lot with a little bit of a runny nose. The next day he acted really sick. He was very lethargic, and he didnt even greet me at the door. He just laid there wagging his tail. He is having trouble walking. He moves very slowly, kind of limping with no energy. His eyes are squinty and watery, and he still has a runny nose. I plan to take him to the vet tomorrow, but I would just would like to hear your input. Thanks for your help! - Posted by: sm_hedges@yahoo.com

Answer: Hi Sandy,

I'm so glad you have an appointment for your dog because it sounds as though he is seriously ill. I'm afraid that what may have started out as a viral infection has progressed to a serious respiratory infection.

Has your dog been drinking any water for you? If not, it's essential to try to get him to take some water or broth. Dehydration will only make his condition worse.

You have my very best wishes for your dog's recovery, and please let us know what your vet has to say. - posted by:Kelly

Question: I bought two Dachshund pups on December 2. The female has had a cough since I got her. She spread the cough to the male pup and then to my two-year-old doxie. I have had all three to the vet for rounds of antibiotics and cough pills. We finished the last round five days ago, and the cough is coming back to all three dogs. I can't afford another $270 again this week, and the vet doesn't seem to be helping. I've tried adding echinacea to their food, too. They seem to feel okay and play, although the two-year-old's eyes have been running. Any suggestions would be helpful as I think they are just spreading it back and forth, but I don't have room to keep them seperated. - Posted by: lgussler@hotmail.com

Answer: Hi Linda,

I think the problem is being perpetuated by the fact that the kennel cough virus can live for a while in the environment. Your dogs are being re-exposed.

I'd like you to check out the following articles on this topic.

You will need to thoroughly wash all of your dogs' crates, bowls and bedding. I would also recommend daily mopping of hard floors. This will help eliminate the virus from the environment.

It sounds as though the puppies only have a mild case of kennel cough, but since your older dog's eyes are running, you'll want to keep a closer eye on her in case this is developing into a secondary respiratory infection. If it is, she will need to see the vet again.

Best wishes that all your dogs recover soon, and I hope you find the information helpful. - posted by:Kelly