Reprinted from ABKA's (American Boarding Kennel Association) Pet Service Journal

"Canine infectious tracheobronchitis (canine cough) is a highly infectious upper respiratory disease that is easily passed from dog to dog, much like a cold is passed between children. Canine cough can be caused by a number of different bacteria such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, and viruses such as canine parainfluenza."

The diseasse-causing agents are airborne, spread by exhalation, sneezing or coughing. In the initial phase, a dog will show no signs at all, but will be contagious. This incubation period lasts 5 to 7 days before the dog will show symptoms of infection.

Symptoms include a dry hacking cough and possible nasal discahrge or sneezing. The cough may last a few days or even several weeks. Sicne it is a viral infection, there is no treatment, although some veterinarians will prescribe an antibiotic for secondary infections or a cough suppressant for excessive coughing. As a self-limiting disease, it will go away in its own time, just like any other cold or flu.

The disease is frequently referred to as "Kennel Cough." However, a dog can be exposed at the park, walking on the street, at a grooming shop, or a veterinary office—any place where other digs congregate or pass thorugh, and therefore, the more appropriate term is "Canine Cough."

Your dog's yearly distemper/parvo vaccine provides protection against some forms of coughing, and most kennels will require a Bordetella vaccine. This vaccine provides more protection against other viruses that cause coughing. However, there is no vaccine that protects against all forms of pathogens causing Tracheobronchitis, so the possibility still exists that even a vaccinated dog can come down with canine cough."

At Orchard Lake Pet Resort, we require the Bordetella vaccine to be given annually, but recommend it be given every 6 months to further help prevent Canine Cough.