Kennel cough is something we’re all aware of and have heard of, but we rarely hear of canine infectious tracheobronchitis – its true title.

Infectious tracheobronchitis (ITB) has potentially three causative agents – most commonly Bordetella Bronchiseptica, followed by canine parainfluenza and canine corona virus.  Interestingly whooping cough in people is caused by a Bordatella bacteria, although a different type, helping us to draw comparisons.

ITB is transmitted through airborne droplets as a result of sneezing or coughing and also contact with contaminated surfaces. Incubation is 3-10 days after contact and symptoms include a harsh, dry hacking cough, retching, gagging and sneezing.

Symptoms in fit healthy dogs may subside themselves after a few weeks, however, secondary infections with other bacteria on top of tracheobronchitis can progress to lower (lung) infections such as pneumonia, in a similar way to influenza infection in people allowing secondary pneumonia.

Transmission of ITB can occur for up to several weeks after recovery, making transmission and infection of other dogs very likely.

Treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories is usually very effective providing no secondary lung involvement has occurred, which considerably complicates the situation.

A highly effective vaccine is available, to help increase the level of protection of your dog by helping your dog’s immune memory mobilise faster, if it should meet the causative agents.  Give one of our vets a ring to find out more - 01363 772860.