What is Kennel Cough? Kennel cough is an upper respiratory
infection affecting dogs. It’s a form of bronchitis and is
similar to a chest cold in humans. This infection can be caused
by several different viruses and bacteria. The most common is a
bacteria called Bordetella. Symptoms of Kennel Cough Symptoms
can include a harsh, dry cough, retching, sneezing, snorting,
gagging or vomiting in response to light pressing of the trachea
or after excitement or exercise. The presence of a fever varies
from case to case. Veterinarians can check for an inflammation
of the larynx and trachea. Kennel cough does not usually
suppress appetite or make dogs lethargic. How is Kennel Cough
Contracted? Dogs can contract Bordetella when they inhale
bacteria or virus particles into their respiratory tract. Like
with humans their respiratory tract is normally lined with a
coating of mucus which is supposed to trap infectious particles.
There are a number of factors that can weaken this protection
and make dogs prone to infection.