Facts About Canine Cough

Dog at vet

What is Canine Cough?

Canine Cough is a group of diseases that affects the respiratory tract of dogs. (It is also referred to as the Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC). The most common symptom is a cough. Other symptoms include nasal or ocular discharge or decrease in appetite or energy.

Canine Cough Facts:

  • There are viral and bacterial causes of Canine Cough including, but not limited to:
    • Bordetella bronchiseptica, mycoplasma, coronavirus, parainfluenza, canine influenza, and adenovirus 2
  • Symptoms typically show within 3-10 days of exposure.
  • Most dogs are able to recover without veterinary intervention.
    • While recovering, it’s necessary to keep dogs away from other dogs for approximately two weeks to prevent spreading of disease
  • Vaccinations available help prevent or lessen the severity of some, but not all causes of Canine Cough.
  • Not all dogs who encounter these diseases show symptoms, but they can still transmit the disease to others.

What is Canine Influenza?

Another respiratory disease, The Canine Influenza Virus (CIV), is sometimes included in CIRDC. The reason for this is because Canine Influenza starts in the upper respiratory tract but can migrate. It can cause additional issues or more severe disease in the lower respiratory tract. There are two known strains of CIV: H3N8 and H3N2. Both strains have a vaccination available to help protect a dog against more severe symptoms.

What is Camp Bow Wow’s Canine Cough Vaccination Policy?

At Camp Bow Wow, we strive to stay current in all areas pertaining to the pets in our care. We take every precaution in creating a safe environment for our Campers. This includes minimizing the chances of contracting Canine Cough through daily disinfection. We also perform close monitoring of dogs, and have standard vaccination requirements.

The Bordetella vaccination protects against some of the common causes of Canine Cough. Dogs who regularly interact with other dogs, e.g., at dog parks, grooming, or day care facilities, are at a higher risk of Canine Cough exposure. Camp Bow Wow’s social, all-day play environment means your pup will be around many different dogs.

Therefore, all Campers must be current on their Bordetella vaccination.

  • Oral, intranasal, or injectable forms of the Bordetella vaccination are accepted
  • In addition to the required Bordetella vaccination, we encourage that Campers receive the Canine Influenza vaccine and ask you to discuss this option with your veterinarian

*Some Camp Bow Wow locations may require additional vaccines or preventative measures. Check with your local Camp Bow Wow for additional information.

References

Camp Bow Wow’s vaccination policy is based on recommendations by leading veterinary professionals and organizations. For additional information on Canine Cough, you may review the resources below.

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