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You
may have heard your dog cough before, but it's never
been so dry and raspy-and continuous. Your pet may
be suffering from kennel cough, a viral and bacterial
disease complex that causes inflammation of the
voicebox and windpipe. It's also highly contagious
to other dogs. If you suspect that your dog has
kennel cough, isolate him from all other dogs and
call your veterinarian.
Contracting Kennel Cough
Canines
often contract this bug after a stay in a kennel-hence,
the name-where they come into close contact with
other dogs who may be carrying the virus. Nowadays,
most kennels won't let your pet board without proof
of a bordatella vaccination, but your dog can get
it if he comes into contact with any other infected
animal. This might happen at a dog run, for example,
or even while greeting another canine on the street.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough
Dogs
who suffer from kennel cough usually show no other
symptoms than a dry, raspy cough. Their appetite
and activity level don't change, but it is characteristic
for them to gag and cough up a white, foamy-looking
phlegm. If your dog has been diagnosed with kennel
cough, your veterinarian may prescribe medication
and, in severe cases, an anti-inflammatory medication
and antibiotics. Your doctor may also recommend
a cough suppressant to alleviate the unpleasant
symptoms. You can use a product made for humans
that contains a simple cough suppressant without
other additives. However, never use a formula that
contains acetaminophen. Experts suggest 2 teaspoons
for a 40-pound dog and 1 teaspoonful for a 20-pound
dog. If your pet weighs less than that, give him
1/2 teaspoon. But no matter what your dog's size,
ANIMED recommends that you check with your doctor
first.
Treatment for Kennel Cough : Humidity
Kennel
cough usually clears up in about 7 to 10 days, but
dogs may continue to cough for up to several weeks.
In the meantime you can make your canine as comfortable
as possible by keeping the humidity high in your
home. Try a humidifier or vaporizer, or let your
pet in the bathroom when you take a shower or a
bath. The warm steam will help soothe his irritated
breathing passages. Try not to expose him to cigarette
smoke or other noxious fumes.
A
slow, short walk outdoors may help clear your dog's
airways and help him breathe better, but take care
to use a halter or body harness instead of a buckle
or correction collar. Be sure to monitor your pet's
progress. A severe case of kennel cough can result
in pneumonia. If your dog shows a nasal discharge,
lethargy or loss of appetite, take him to the veterinarian
immediately.
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