Treatment and Prevention of Kennel Cough (Bordetella) in Dogs
Macrolide antibiotics are the treatment of choice for kennel cough caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica, and vaccination is the most effective preventive strategy for dogs at risk of exposure.
Understanding Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), is a highly contagious respiratory condition affecting dogs, particularly those in close quarters such as kennels, dog parks, or boarding facilities. The disease is multifactorial with several causative agents:
- Primary bacterial agent: Bordetella bronchiseptica 1, 2
- Viral agents often involved: canine parainfluenza virus (SV5), canine adenovirus 2 3
- Other potential pathogens: mycoplasma species, Streptococcus equi, canine herpesvirus 3
Clinical Presentation
The typical presentation includes:
- Persistent, harsh cough that often sounds like "honking"
- Paroxysmal coughing episodes
- Post-tussive vomiting or gagging
- Usually mild fever or no fever
- Generally good appetite and energy despite cough
- Symptoms typically last 1-2 weeks but bacterial shedding can continue for 2-3 months 4
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically based on:
- Clinical presentation of characteristic cough
- History of exposure to other dogs in confined settings
- Nasopharyngeal swab for culture to confirm B. bronchiseptica (most definitive method) 5
Treatment Approach
1. Antimicrobial Therapy
For confirmed or suspected Bordetella infection:
- Macrolide antibiotics are the first-line treatment 5
- Erythromycin has traditionally been the antimicrobial of choice
- Treatment should be administered early in the course to reduce duration and severity of symptoms
- Treatment also reduces the period of communicability 5
- Treatment duration typically 7-14 days
2. Symptomatic Management
For persistent post-infectious cough:
- Inhaled ipratropium bromide may attenuate cough symptoms 5
- For severe paroxysmal cough that affects quality of life:
- Central acting antitussive agents can be used when other measures fail 5
3. Supportive Care
- Rest and reduced exercise during recovery period
- Well-ventilated environment
- Humidification may help soothe irritated airways
- Harness instead of collar to reduce tracheal irritation
Prevention Strategies
1. Vaccination
Vaccination is the most important preventive strategy 5:
- Available in several forms:
- Intranasal vaccines (live attenuated)
- Injectable vaccines (killed/acellular)
- Vaccination schedule:
- Initial vaccination followed by boosters according to manufacturer recommendations
- Annual revaccination typically recommended for at-risk dogs
2. Risk Reduction
- Avoid exposure to dogs with respiratory symptoms
- Minimize time in high-density canine environments during outbreaks
- Ensure proper ventilation in kennels and boarding facilities
- Isolate affected dogs to prevent spread
Special Considerations
Human Health Concerns
- B. bronchiseptica can potentially infect immunocompromised humans
- Particular risk for individuals with cystic fibrosis, chronic granulomatous disease, or other immune deficiencies 6
- For households with immunocompromised members:
- Consider non-live (killed/acellular) vaccines for pets
- Newly vaccinated pets with live vaccines should be kept away from immunocompromised individuals for the recommended withdrawal period (35 days to 11 weeks) 6
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Misdiagnosis: Not all persistent canine coughs are kennel cough; consider other diagnoses if cough persists beyond 8 weeks 5
Inappropriate antibiotic use: Antibiotics are only effective against the bacterial component (B. bronchiseptica) and not against viral causes
Inadequate preventive measures: Failure to vaccinate dogs at high risk of exposure (those attending daycare, boarding, dog shows, etc.)
Overlooking zoonotic potential: Especially important in households with immunocompromised individuals
By following these treatment and prevention guidelines, most dogs with kennel cough will recover completely within a few weeks, with minimal risk of complications or spread to other animals.