Kennel cough vaccine is a vaccine that your dog needs to have to keep them protected against this disease. In this post we will look at some of the symptoms of kennel cough, what causes it and the different strains of the virus. We will also take a look at some of the pros and cons of this vaccine.
- What is “kennel cough” and how to spot it?
- Who is at risk of kennel cough?
- Kennel Cough Signs and Symptoms
- The Kennel Cough Vaccine: How Does It Work?
- What should I expect from the vaccine?
- What can you do to prevent kennel cough in your dog?
- Conclusion
What is “kennel cough” and how to spot it?
Dog-specific diseases are known as zoonotic diseases. In general, zoonotic diseases are distinguished by their geographic distribution; they are diseases that are most frequently contracted by dogs and transferred to other small animals. Food poisoning, campylobacter infection, E. coli infection, and Giardiasis (severe diarrhea) are just a few of the rare diseases you can catch from your dog.
How can you spot kennel cough? It’s a highly contagious disease distributed primarily through direct contact with sick dogs’ respiratory secretions. It is possible to get it simply by stroking a dog that is affected with the sickness. A veterinarian can readily diagnose it by checking at your dog’s respiratory tract. Coughing, sneezing, and clear to light coloured phlegm are common symptoms in dogs.
Who is at risk of kennel cough?
Kennel cough is not a very dangerous disease and about 15% of the dog population will get it at some point in their lives. The disease is more common in puppies, and although it is extremely rare, it can infect older people with weakened immune systems. The disease is highly contagious and can quickly spread between small animals. Despite the fact that the symptoms may be managed, the disease is rarely given the attention it requires. It can spread among dogs, cats, and other animals in close contact. In most cases, treating dogs with antibiotics and cough suppressants does the job.
Kennel Cough Signs and Symptoms
According to American Vet Online the symptoms are usually minor and resemble those of a common cold in humans: Runny nose, sneezing, lack of energy, decreased appetite, and mild fever are most common symptoms. Kennel cough is a condition that affects many dogs. It affects a large number of dogs, but it rarely causes severe symptoms.
Your dog may show relatively few symptoms at times, and not all dogs show the same signs. If your veterinarian suspects kennel cough, a sample of mucus from your dog’s nose will be taken and sent to a lab for diagnosis. Your dog may develop a secondary bacterial infection if kennel cough is not treated properly and immediately, so it’s best to get a quick diagnosis. Your vet will prescribe antibiotics if needed.
The Kennel Cough Vaccine: How Does It Work?
The kennel cough vaccination, commonly known as the Bordetella vaccine, is a simplified term for a series of immunizations designed to prevent contagious canine cough. In the United States and Canada, the vaccine is an adaptable vaccine, which means it contains a strain of bacteria that can cause kennel cough. When bacteria enters the dog’s body and grows, the immune system produces antibodies and memory T cells that will fight the bacteria if the dog is infected again.
The immunizations provide a less valuable option for the disease, which can have life-threatening complications. The dog will get a slight cold that will clear up in about a week. While he is unwell, the dog is not contagious. Vaccines are usually administered to dogs between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, depending on the locality.
Every dog that visits dog parks or competes in dog shows should receive this vaccine. It is also provided to any new dog brought into the family in order to prevent the dogs from contracting the sickness from other dogs. There are no known negative effects from the kennel cough vaccine.
The Pros and Cons
When it comes to kennel cough vaccines, there are numerous advantages and disadvantages to consider. On the plus side, these immunizations can help prevent the disease in dogs and cats. They may also provide some relief for pets who become ill as a result of kennel cough.
On the negative side, some pet owners are concerned that the immunisation will cause other health issues. Furthermore, some people believe that in some situations, the vaccine is ineffective in preventing kennel cough. Before vaccinating your pet against any sickness, you should contact with your veterinarian.
What should I expect from the vaccine?
Although getting vaccinated against kennel cough may sound strange, dog owners should not overlook the risk. It’s not a highly dangerous disease, but it can be inconvenient for veterinarians, dog owners, and pets. Kennel cough is a contagious disease that causes dogs to cough. If your dog is going to be in the kennel for a few days, it’s very likely that this may happen to him. Having him vaccinated before going to the kennel is the best way to avoid contracting this disease. There are some possible adverse effects, although they aren’t very likely. This Vaccine is usually all that is required to keep your dog from developing the disease.
What can you do to prevent kennel cough in your dog?
The vaccine and antibiotic are both effective treatments for kennel cough. Vaccinating your dog is the greatest approach to keep this disease from infecting and harming him, but it doesn’t guarantee that he won’t get sick. To keep your dog from being ill, there are a few things you can do. The best approach to keep him from getting sick is to provide him with lots of food, water, and rest.
Weather
Never leave him outside without enough weather protection. If the weather is too cold and snowy outside, keep him inside until the weather improves. Have some covered locations accessible if it’s too hot outside so he doesn’t have to spend too much time in the sun.
Physical health
It’s also crucial to keep him at a healthy weight. Dogs who are overweight are more likely to become ill. Don’t feed him table scraps because they include a lot of ingredients he doesn’t need.
Immunity
Maintain a clean environment, and if you have other dogs, make sure they’re all up to date on their vaccinations. Immunized dogs will produce antibodies that will aid in the fight against the disease. Vaccines for dogs are still relatively new, and many dogs who aren’t inoculated are susceptible to infection.
Different Strains
There are many different strains of kennel cough, but the most prevalent are CAV-2 (canine adenovirus 2) and CAV-3. This virus is found in the trachea and bronchi and is most commonly spread by dogs grooming each other. The virus is also found in dog drool, breath, or nasal secretions.
To wrap things up!
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory ailment in dogs and cats. The Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium causes it, and it is transferred through the air. Sneezing, coughing, fast breathing, and fever are all symptoms of kennel cough. Although there is no specific treatment for kennel cough, immunisation is the most popular means of prevention. As you can see, being proactive in preventing the spread of this respiratory virus to others in your home, as well as ensuring that your furry buddy is up to date on their vaccines, is critical. Spread the word about this blog post to your friends and family to keep their pups safe from kennel cough!
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