Kennel Cough Syndrome (Infectious Canine Tracheobronchitis)

Cause, A complex package of bacteria. Transmission, From dog to dog, but can also be transmitted by infected airborne particles. Major signs, Harsh cough. 'Kennel cough' is a contagious upper respiratory disease usually occurring where dogs are in close contact - boarding kennels, rescue centres, shows, etc.

A variety of infectious agents may be involved. These include Canine Parainfluenza Virus, Canine Adenovirus, Canine Distemper Virus, Herpesvirus, Reoccurs and the bacterium Bordetelia bronchiseptica. Signs are usually a dry cough, which may cause retching, mil, tiredness and loss of appetite and a mildly raised temperature Very occasionally, the disease may progress to pneumonia.

Treatment is usually successful and recovery uneventful, but take up to three weeks. Vaccination is possible against many of the components of the syndrome and is specially useful when dogs are to be boarded at kennels or regularly attend shows.

Note, the yearly vaccination might not include protection against Kennel Cough. Most vets need to be told if you want it included. They work on the assumption you wont be putting your Westie in a kennel, and therefore you wont need it.