Should I Take My Dog to the ER for Kennel Cough?
It depends. While most cases of kennel cough are mild and resolve with supportive care, urgent veterinary attention is crucial if your dog exhibits severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Should I take my dog to the ER for kennel cough? depends on symptom severity and your dog’s overall health.
Understanding Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects dogs. It’s analogous to the common cold in humans, and just like a cold, it can range from mild to severe. The name “kennel cough” stems from its tendency to spread rapidly in environments where dogs are in close proximity, such as kennels, dog parks, and shelters.
What Causes Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough isn’t caused by a single pathogen; it’s often the result of a combination of viruses and bacteria, including:
- Bordetella bronchiseptica (the most common bacterial culprit)
- Canine parainfluenza virus
- Canine adenovirus
- Canine distemper virus
- Canine influenza virus
- Mycoplasma species
These agents inflame the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (airways) of the dog, making them more susceptible to secondary infections.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Kennel Cough
The hallmark symptom of kennel cough is a persistent, forceful, hacking cough. This cough is often described as sounding like a goose honk or a dry retching. Other potential symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Eye discharge
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Fever (less common)
It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary significantly depending on the specific pathogens involved and the individual dog’s immune system. Some dogs may only exhibit a mild cough, while others may experience more severe respiratory distress.
When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
While most cases of kennel cough are self-limiting or resolve with outpatient treatment, certain symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention. You should take your dog to the ER for kennel cough if they exhibit any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing: Labored breathing, rapid breathing, or blue gums are all signs of respiratory distress and require immediate intervention.
- Severe lethargy: A dog that is extremely weak, unresponsive, or collapsing needs emergency care.
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours: This can indicate a more serious underlying problem, especially in puppies or senior dogs.
- High fever (above 103.5°F): A high fever can be a sign of a secondary infection.
- Pneumonia: If your dog is diagnosed with pneumonia as a complication of kennel cough, ER care may be needed.
Why Prompt Action Matters
Delaying treatment in severe cases of kennel cough can lead to serious complications, including:
- Pneumonia
- Chronic bronchitis
- Permanent lung damage
- Death (in rare cases)
Therefore, it’s crucial to err on the side of caution and seek veterinary care if you are concerned about your dog’s condition.
Treatment Options for Kennel Cough
The treatment for kennel cough depends on the severity of the infection. Mild cases may only require supportive care, such as:
- Rest
- Cough suppressants (prescribed by a veterinarian)
- Humidifiers to ease breathing
- Avoiding strenuous exercise
More severe cases may require antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections, as well as other medications to manage the symptoms. In emergency situations, dogs may need oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and other supportive measures.
Prevention is Key
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent kennel cough. The Bordetella vaccine is widely available and can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Other preventative measures include:
- Avoiding contact with sick dogs
- Ensuring good ventilation in kennels and other dog-friendly environments
- Maintaining a strong immune system through proper nutrition and exercise
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the long-term effects of kennel cough?
In most cases, dogs fully recover from kennel cough without any long-term effects. However, in severe cases, particularly if pneumonia develops, there can be residual lung damage that can lead to chronic coughing or reduced exercise tolerance.
How is kennel cough diagnosed?
A veterinarian typically diagnoses kennel cough based on the dog’s symptoms, history, and a physical examination. In some cases, diagnostic tests such as a tracheal wash or chest X-rays may be performed to rule out other conditions or assess the severity of the infection.
Can humans catch kennel cough from dogs?
While Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common cause of kennel cough, it is very rare for humans to contract it from dogs. People who are immunocompromised may be at a slightly higher risk, but the risk is still extremely low.
How long is kennel cough contagious?
Dogs with kennel cough can be contagious for several weeks, even after the symptoms have resolved. It’s generally recommended to isolate infected dogs for at least two weeks after the cough has stopped to prevent the spread of the infection.
Can my dog get kennel cough even if they are vaccinated?
Yes, it is possible for a vaccinated dog to contract kennel cough. The vaccine protects against the most common strains of the bacteria and viruses that cause the disease, but not all of them. If a vaccinated dog does get kennel cough, the symptoms are usually milder and resolve more quickly.
What home remedies can I use to treat kennel cough?
While home remedies can provide some relief, they should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care. Some helpful home remedies include:
- Using a humidifier to moisten the air
- Offering warm broth to soothe the throat
- Avoiding using a collar that puts pressure on the trachea
How much does it cost to treat kennel cough?
The cost of treating kennel cough can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment required. Mild cases that only require cough suppressants may cost under $100. Severe cases that require hospitalization and intensive care can cost several hundred to several thousand dollars.
Is there a cure for kennel cough?
There isn’t a single “cure” for kennel cough because it’s often caused by a combination of pathogens. However, antibiotics can be used to treat secondary bacterial infections, and other medications can help to manage the symptoms and support the dog’s immune system.
My dog is coughing, but it’s not kennel cough. What else could it be?
There are many other conditions that can cause coughing in dogs, including:
- Heart disease
- Collapsing trachea
- Pneumonia
- Foreign body in the airway
- Lung tumors
It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of your dog’s cough and receive appropriate treatment.
Should I isolate my dog from other pets if they have kennel cough?
Yes, you should isolate your dog from other pets to prevent the spread of the infection. This means keeping them separated in different rooms and avoiding contact with shared items such as food bowls and toys.
When is kennel cough most common?
Kennel cough is more common during the fall and winter months, when dogs are more likely to be in close proximity indoors.
What can I expect at the ER if I take my dog there for kennel cough?
If you take your dog to the ER for kennel cough, the veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and may order diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays or blood work. They will then develop a treatment plan based on the severity of your dog’s condition. The focus will be on stabilizing your dog’s breathing, addressing any underlying infections, and providing supportive care. Be prepared for potential hospitalization if your dog is in respiratory distress or requires intensive monitoring. If you are unsure should I take my dog to the ER for kennel cough? call the vet.