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Infectious Tracheobronchitis of Dogs is also know as Canine Cough or Kennel Cough.
It is an infectious disease of dogs and need immediate attention by a veterinarian. It is caused by inflammation of the upper airways. If not treated properly or in time, it can lead to deadly bronchopneumonia in puppies and brochitis in aged dogs. Infectious Tracheobronchitis can spread swiftly in kennels and areas where dogs are confined to.
The disease is caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, the main being the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria and the Canine parainfluenza virus, canine adenovirus 2 (CAV-2), or canine distemper virus.
This scanning electron micrograph (SEM) depicted a number of Gram-negative Bordetella bronchiseptica coccobacilli bacteria.
This organism is commonly found to be the cause of respiratory tract infections in dogs, as well as human beings whose immune system
had been compromised including those who are infected by the HIV virus. Courtsey CDC/ Janice Carr
Affected dogs show a very chronic cough. Body temperature and the White Blood Count can be normal. Incubation period is about 5 to 10 days after being exposed to infected dogs.
Infected dogs should be taken to a veterinarian where proper management of the dog will begin.
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