TRACHEOBRONCHITIS
CANINE TRACHEOBRONCHITIS,
often nicknamed “Kennel Cough” is an inflammation of the windpipe (trachea) and lung air passages. There are many causes including irritation, bacteria, and viruses. It can be highly transmissible from one dog to another. It does not affect the cat or humans. Your pet may show no signs of illness except a harsh, deep cough. It can come on suddenly or be the result of other Respiratory Infections.This occurs many times after a dog has been kenneled for a few days. While kenneled away from home, many dogs do a lot of barking which irritates the throat making it more susceptible to developing bronchitis. Many times, bronchitis may start from tonsillitis. Often gagging or vomiting mucus from the throat is seen by the owner. With treatment, recovery is usually complete. Medications MAY be needed for several weeks. Complete recovery often takes SIX WEEKS!
Medication must be individualized to your pet’s particular needs. Many times you must start antibiotics for the bacterial infection, and let the dog cough for a week or two to remove the mucus. If the cough reflex is stopped too soon, pneumonia can develop from mucus that accumulates in the lungs.
Give antibiotics as directed. Give anti-inflammatory medications and cough suppressants as directed. Use a vaporizer in the room to help prevent drying of the lining of the respiratory tract. Use COLD WATER in the vaporizer. Encourage as much fluid consumption as possible. Water is the best drug available to help thin the mucus so that it can be coughed up.
Minimal exercise is required to help prevent coughing. Remove collars and other objects from the neck which may cause pressure on the trachea, stimulating coughing. Maintain a constant air temperature and prevent chilling. It probably is best to keep inside as much as possible. Don’t bathe the dog if it has a fever. Be sure to thoroughly dry the dog if a bath is necessary.
Notify your pet’s veterinarian if the cough becomes worse or persists, diarrhea or vomiting develops, or if you are unable to give the medication. Remember it often takes six weeks for the dog to completely recover.
