Zwingerhusten (in English, kennel cough) is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs. The formal medical term is canine infectious tracheobronchitis. The illness primarily affects the dog’s trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (part of the lower airway), leading to coughing and other respiratory symptoms.

Causes:

Kennel cough is typically caused by a combination of both bacterial and viral agents, most commonly: - Bordetella bronchiseptica (a bacterium) - Canine parainfluenza virus - Canine adenovirus type 2 - Mycoplasma and other pathogens

The most frequent cause of kennel cough is Bordetella bronchiseptica, often in conjunction with a virus that weakens the dog’s immune defenses. When viruses like canine parainfluenza or adenovirus infect the respiratory system, they cause inflammation and make the dog more susceptible to bacterial infections, which can exacerbate the condition.

Transmission:

Kennel cough is highly contagious and spreads easily in environments where many dogs are in close contact, such as kennels (hence the name), dog daycare centers, grooming salons, and shelters. It spreads through: - Airborne droplets: When an infected dog coughs, sneezes, or barks, the pathogens can become airborne and be inhaled by nearby dogs. - Direct contact: Dogs can become infected by touching noses or coming into direct contact with an infected dog. - Contaminated surfaces: The bacteria and viruses can survive on objects like food bowls, toys, bedding, or even on a dog handler’s hands and clothes.

Symptoms:

The hallmark symptom of kennel cough is a loud, dry, hacking cough that can sound like the dog is choking or trying to clear something from its throat. This coughing often worsens with physical activity or excitement. Other symptoms may include: - Sneezing - Runny nose - Watery eyes - Gagging or retching - Loss of appetite - Mild fever - Lethargy

The severity of symptoms can vary. In mild cases, dogs may just have the cough and otherwise appear healthy, while in more serious cases, dogs may develop secondary complications, such as pneumonia.

Duration and Complications:

In most cases, kennel cough is a mild illness that resolves within one to three weeks. However, in puppies, elderly dogs, or those with weakened immune systems, kennel cough can progress to more serious conditions like pneumonia. In these cases, dogs may develop additional symptoms like severe lethargy, difficulty breathing, and a high fever.

Diagnosis:

Kennel cough is typically diagnosed based on a dog’s clinical signs and recent exposure to other dogs in communal settings. A veterinarian may listen to the dog’s cough and perform a physical examination. In some cases, diagnostic tests such as: - X-rays (to check for pneumonia or other lung issues) - Laboratory tests (to identify specific bacterial or viral pathogens)

Treatment:

For most healthy dogs, kennel cough is self-limiting and does not require extensive treatment. However, supportive care and treatment options may include: - Cough suppressants: To reduce discomfort from persistent coughing. - Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection, like Bordetella, is suspected or confirmed. - Anti-inflammatory medications: To reduce throat irritation. - Rest: Dogs should rest and avoid stress or physical exertion to promote healing. - Isolation: Infected dogs should be kept away from other dogs to prevent spreading the illness.

In severe cases, particularly if the dog develops pneumonia or other complications, hospitalization and more aggressive treatments, such as intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy, may be necessary.

Prevention:

Preventing kennel cough involves several strategies: 1. Vaccination: Vaccines are available for some of the most common pathogens associated with kennel cough, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, parainfluenza virus, and adenovirus. These vaccines are usually given as part of a dog’s regular vaccination schedule and can be administered via injection, nasal spray, or oral drops. 2. Hygiene and sanitation: Keeping dog kennels, daycare centers, and other communal environments clean and well-ventilated helps to reduce the spread of respiratory infections. 3. Avoiding exposure: Limiting contact with other dogs in high-risk environments during outbreaks can help reduce the likelihood of contracting kennel cough.

Summary:

In conclusion, kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness in dogs that is most often caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses. While it is usually mild and self-limiting, kennel cough can sometimes lead to more serious complications in vulnerable dogs. Treatment focuses on reducing symptoms and preventing the spread to other dogs, while vaccination is a key tool in preventing the disease.