Canine Bronchitis
Canine Bronchitis appears to be more common than it used to be. Like winter ailments in humans it moves through an area infecting some individuals, but not others, with symptoms which can range in severity.
Generally It is not something to be worried about, any more than one might worry about a child coming back from school with a cough or a runny nose. Yes, it can develop into a nasty condition, as a cold can develop into flu, or even pneumonia. However in most cases the treatment (if any) is simple and effective.
As it runs through the area the chances are that we may catch an infection. Brumley Brae follow strict cleansing and sanitation procedures. However, no amount of supervision, sanitation or personalized care by any boarding facility can prevent a dog from catching an airborne virus as even when we have cleared it out we can be re-infected by an incoming dog the next day.
It is your decision to get the Kennel Cough vaccine. As the Vaccine does not provide protection against all of the viruses that can cause this condition, a dog may become ill even if he's been vaccinated. This is why we do not insist on it.
Whilst in our care your dog is covered by our Veterinary Insurance Policy, and we will start treatment immediately we become aware of infection. Because of the incubation period, it's possible that your dog starts a day or two days after leaving. We must be informed immediately and you must visit the vet within 72 hours of departure before our insurance cover will consider any claim. Vet bills must be presented to us within 7 days of treatment, which must have started no more than 72 hours from departure.
Remember it is your option to get immunisation, there is nothing to stop your dog being vaccinated when you get your annual shots!
Infectious bronchitis can be caused by a number of different airborne bacteria and viruses. Typically, more than one of these agents must bombard the dog at once to trigger illness. Such a multifaceted attack is more likely to occur when a dog spends time in close quarters with an infected dog (but it can also be brought on by stress). It can be also be transferred even when the carrier is not still present, but leaves infection behind it.
The condition may manifests itself up to 5 days after contraction.
The primary sign are:
- A dry-sounding and Spasmodic Coughing
- After a Coughing spell the dog may Retch and Cough out white foamy mucus.
- Some dogs may also develop Conjunctivitis, and a Nasal discharge.
Fortunately, the majority of cases are not serious, resolving on their own in a week or two. Affected dogs usually remain active and alert and continue to eat well. Generally vet treatment is a jab and a short course of antibiotics and sometimes a cough suppressant.
However for some dog breeds, and the very young, old or infirm, there can be serious complications. Immunization may help control Infectious Bronchitis. Vaccination is administered by a spray into the nasal passage.
At Brumley Brae we do not insist on dogs having this Vaccine. However, if you are at all concerned you MUST have had treatment at least three weeks before boarding. We will not accept dogs in who are just vaccinated as they can shed the virus and spread the condition.
Please refer to this weblink for more information on side effects: http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/vaccine-side-effects.html#reaction-four.